Social work information and accountability systems in a hospital setting.

Information and accountability systems for departments of social work are a major concern for the profession, particularly within the health care sector. This paper describes the development of such a system within a large university hospital, the forces that led to its development, and the multiple expectations for its usefulness in planning and implementing social work services most effectively, within the lowest cost. It includes potential for building research projects and is utilized as a communication mechanism for recording. Collaboration within the profession is essential for implementing objective standards to be utilized in reviewing delivery of professional social work services.