Medical Social Workers

The first cases of HIV/AIDS were reported in 1981 (CDC, 2011). Over the past 30 years, society has witnessed many advances in the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS, leading to significant control of this epidemic (CDC, 2011). Despite these successes, HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health issue in the United States.

To prepare for this Assignment:

Consider the overall burden of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Think about the contributions that medical social workers have made to the prevention of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

In a 3- to 4-page paper:

• Briefly explain how the HIV/AIDS epidemic has changed since it first emerged in 1981.
• Explain how the roles of medical social workers have evolved over the course of the epidemic. Select one specific milestone and elaborate the roles of medical social workers.
• Explain the profession’s ongoing advocacy and support to the prevention of HIV/AIDS.
• Explain the challenges the profession has been facing and anticipates facing when dealing with HIV/AIDS patients. Provide specific examples.

Support your Assignment with specific references to resources, using appropriate APA format and style. You are asked to provide a reference list for all resources, including those in the resources for this course.