Current Trends in the Development of Medical and Social Assistance

Recent trends in disease prevention and public health in Russia underscore the necessity for more seamless integration between medical and social care services. The efficacy of medical care is significantly influenced by social determinants of health, including accessibility to education, economic stability, and societal inclusiveness. The emphasis on health-related social factors was particularly pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the World Health Organization underscoring the necessity of integrating these factors into national anti-epidemic measures.

Role of social work in the healthcare system is becoming increasingly vital. Social workers serve as mediators between healthcare institutions and social services, operating under a holistic understanding of health and the underlying causes of diseases. They play a crucial role in addressing social issues that may hinder effective treatment or rehabilitation. Integrated medical-social work is characterized by an enhanced preventive orientation. This approach reflects a global trend toward disease prevention and the strengthening of population health, linked to a growing recognition of the economic benefits of preventive measures compared to disease treatment.

In Russia there is a strengthening of interdisciplinary approaches within medical-social assistance. Models of integrated care are being developed, uniting the efforts of healthcare professionals, social services, and community organizations. This approach facilitates more effective resolutions to the global challenges.

A significant global trend is also the digitalization of the medical-social sector. The implementation of telemedicine, mobile health monitoring applications, and electronic accounting systems enhances the accessibility and quality of services, particularly for residents of remote areas lacking advanced medical facilities. In Russia, this trend is also evident in the development of digital platforms for the coordination of medical and social assistance.

This research was carried out with support of the Russian Science Foundation (RSF) according to the project № 24-18-00542, implemented at Saint Petersburg State University.