Meet Lisa Hynes, MSW, who has served patients as a social worker at Broward Health Coral Springs for the past 22 years. She loves being a solution for patients, and helping others become independent. 

"I am passionate about social work because it provides me with the opportunity to assist others who are having a difficult time. I love teaching others how to help themselves.

I became a social worker because I grew up in foster care, and I was inspired by the social workers who helped motivate me to get out of the system. This is my way of giving back. I share my experiences to help those in need.

The most rewarding part of my job is when I can help someone who is hopeless find solutions. There is no better feeling in the world than to see the light come on in someone’s eyes and knowing I was part of that change.

I would recommend that anyone pursuing a career in social work, especially in the hospital environment, know that they do make a difference even when it doesn't seem like they are being heard. To my pleasant surprise, I have patients come back to me years later and tell me that they took my suggestions to improve their situations. Every life touched does make a difference.

The social worker in the hospital setting takes care of the emotional and social issues related to the medical condition. A safe discharge plan is our priority. We are the bleeding heart do-gooders and the problem solvers. We work directly with the case managers who are nurses. We all work as a team, but we do have different roles. We are the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves."

-Lisa Hynes, MSW