Where Are All the Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Social Workers?

Pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) is a growing specialty, but despite the complexity of many patients' experiences, few hospitals employ dedicated social workers trained to support these patients and their families. This is true despite the fact that PAG providers routinely care for individuals with multiple conditions where patients and families could benefit from support around long-term implications for reproductive health and fertility; surgical decision making; counseling in the wake of sexual trauma; comprehensive sex education and counseling; and referrals to other social services. This commentary is designed to provide examples of the types of care that can benefit from the involvement of a skilled, experienced behavioral health practitioner as well as potential barriers to hiring a social worker for a multidisciplinary team. There is a need for leaders in PAG to make a multipronged effort to increase training and networking opportunities in PAG social work alongside negotiating increased funding for social care in the PAG setting. This commentary is designed to provide suggestions for a pathway forward.