Social Worker, Mental Health

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Include the following:

• Assumes primary responsibility for medical social services for Hospice patients and families.
• Assesses patient/family social and emotional factors in order to estimate their capacity and potential to cope with the terminal illness and death.
• Assesses patient/family ability to meet financial obligations and offer appropriate resources and activate resources as indicated.
• Collaborates with other members of the Interdisciplinary Group to develop a comprehensive plan of care and goals within two days of the start of the patient’s care and as necessary throughout the provision of services to assure response to the patient’s/family changing needs.
• Provides patient/family-counseling services that are consistent with the established plan of care under medical supervision, to include bereavement counseling in situations determined to be high risk.
• Accurately documents observations, interventions and evaluations pertaining to patient care management and services provided in accordance with Hospice policy and procedures on the day services are rendered. Submits documentation in a timely manner.
• Assists patient, family and staff in utilizing community resources.
• Assists in discharge planning from Hospice service when care is no longer appropriate.
• Participates in Hospice and community programs and presentations.

• Masters degree in social work from an accredited school of social work.
• If the state has registration practices, registration to practice as a Medical Social Worker in the state(s) in which the Hospice is certified.
• One year of social work experience in a health care setting.
• If the state has registration practices, registration to practice as a Medical Social Worker in the state(s) in which the Hospice is certified.
• Ability to meet Hospice’s conditions of employment regarding health clearance, and provisions of professional references.
• Transports self to patient’s home/facility, may be in multiple locations in a workday.
• Must be able to function in a practice environment with minimal direct supervision.
• Extensive knowledge of healthcare and long-term care organizations and their structure.
• Ability to effectively communicate and present information in a clear and concise manner, both orally and in writing.

EEO / M/ F/ D/ V/ Drug-Free Workplace