Check out the latest edition of the Healthcare Insights podcast VLOG featuring Victor Isler, MHA, MSW, LCSW - Director at Forsyth County Department of Social Services. Andrew Brewer, NWAHEC Instructional Technologist has a great discussion with Victor Isler about challenges of DSS before and during COVID-19.

The Forsyth County Department of Social Services (DSS) is extremely busy and engaging in a new way of doing business. They have over 700+ citizens that come through front door daily and have had to figure out how to continue to help the community virtually. There have been economic services enhancements through Forsyth County and the State on NC has worked through a new process for applying for food nutrition and Medicaid electronically. One good thing that has happened due to COVID-19 is better utilization of the E-Pass System. The E-Pass system has been in place for years but wasn’t utilized as much, people preferred the face-to-face interaction. There has been a shift for the better to leverage the E-Pass process better to meet those needs. Forsyth County DSS has seen Increase in applications of 1,500 per month due to COVID-19, and are operating in the new normal now.

Prior to COVID-19, automation was a challenge. A new electronic record system was needed to share data across county lines as families move out of cities. NC-Fast is the new form of automation where Social Workers can utilize on smart phone, tablet, or laptop devices.

There has been an unfortunate increase in severe cases of physical abuse and neglect due to kids being at home more and not in school due to COVID-19. Nationally this is an issue as well, they are being responsive to those cases.

A new normal in the field for Social Workers – these people are first responders and have been on the front lines through COVID-19. Personal protective equipment has been required and more screening in place to ensure safety.

“Our Social Workers are our unsung heroes, they have been vital in our obligation to ensure children are protected even through a pandemic.” -Victor Isler

Eliminating barriers like transportation, workforce development, and offering diverse work opportunities will help Department of Social Services help the whole individuals so they can thrive in the community.

“My wish is that we can build a resilient community where people can tap into resources and build support that individuals can motivate themselves to thrive and reach their full potential.” – Victor Isler

The Hotline is active and open 24/7:
To report Child Abuse & Neglect, call (336) 703-ABUSE (703-2287) or fax (336) 726-0249 (24 hrs 7 days a week)
To report Adult Abuse and Neglect, dial (336) 703-3503 (after 5pm call (336) 703-ABUSE (703-2287)

We appreciate the time Victor shared with us on this topic today. Be sure to tune in next time to Healthcare Insights on Facebook or Soundcloud Podcast (https://soundcloud.com/nwahecwebmaster).

Video - https://www.facebook.com/NWAHEC/videos/668771610407014

Podcast on Soundcloud - https://soundcloud.com/nwahecwebmaster/hi-ep-37-victor-isle-mhamswlcsw

Learn more about Forsyth County Division of Social Services here https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/forsyth-county-department-social-services

Or find them on social media @forsythcountyNC