Tips and Tools for Social Workers

The federal government is soliciting three types of proposals to fund programs that prevent and address elder abuse. Social workers play critical roles in elder abuse programming, including programs funded by the federal government. Read this NASW post for a summary of each funding opportunity.

Older Americans Month (OAM) recognizes the contributions and achievements of older adults and highlight important trends in aging. OAM is also a time to deepen our commitment to making our communities age inclusive—that is, places that support all of us as we age. This publication explores the OAM theme for 2024, describes selected NASW activities to support social work with older adults, and provides a robust resource list.

On November 2, 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the final rule for the 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (CMS–1784–P). The 2024 Physician Fee Schedule details services to address health equity and health-related social needs available to Medicare beneficiaries.

During the month of May, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month. The association recognizes millions of people impacted by mental health conditions in the United States each year. Although mental health conditions are common, research estimates that only half of the people impacted receive treatment. The association also acknowledges the ongoing dedication of social workers who provide mental health services such as crisis intervention, assessment, treatment, and support.

In February 2024, NASW members informed the association of mass overpayment requests from Optum United Behavioral Health. Optum Recovery Service reported that they paid clinical social work providers 100 percent of the psychologist rate when they should have been paid only 75 percent of the psychologist rate. As a result, Optum requested overpayment of 25 percent from clinical social work providers who received reimbursement for services provided to beneficiaries of Medicare Advantage Plans.

This update is a follow-up to NASW’s Tips and Tools, New Medicare Reimbursement for 2024