Xenotransplantation and the NASW Code of Ethics

Purpose: As medical technology develops, the profession of social work will need to expand its boundaries to better define the role of the social worker in experimental medicine, such as xenotransplantation. The NASW Standards for Social Work Practice in Health Care Settings does not address how rapid growth in medical advances can challenge the traditional role that reflects a value-based ethical philosophy. Methods: This commentary explores experimental medicine in reference to NASW's Code of Ethics. Results: We define the social worker's role in experimental medicine, identify areas of research to prove social work efficacy in experimental medicine, and address ethical concerns proactively. Discussion: The results of our analysis demonstrate that professional social work societies may be unprepared for the changes caused by experimental medicine. Conclusion: The findings suggest that social work may need to flex to meet the demands of experimental medicine.