Renal Social Worker

Reporting to the Provincial Renal Program Manager, the Provincial Renal Social Worker provides psycho-social counseling, education and treatment planning to maximize functioning and adjustment of individuals and families with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Working with a multi-disciplinary team of health care professionals in developing and monitoring short- and long-term care plans, the renal social worker conducts psycho-social assessments and counsels patients on lifestyle behaviors and health promotion, treatment options and advanced care planning.

Acts as an advocate on behalf of the patient and family. Provides patient education and /or facilitates support groups. Participates in the program development, policies, the development of resources and educational material, and navigating patients and families through their health care journey. Participates in quality improvement activities

Duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Identifying complex, acute and high risk situations to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and their families;
• prior to patient starting dialysis or receiving a transplant, completing a full psycho-social assessment with the patient and family, taking into account social determinants of health such as employment, housing, finances, family situation/support, resources, physical ability, emotional status, environmental condition, social outlets, challenges, supports and goals of care;
• determining patient needs and eligibility for services/resources;
• determining risks for recurring illness and disability;
• consulting with and facilitating communication between health care team members, patient and families, QEII Transplant Program, and prospective donors to coordinate healthcare services and optimal patient health status;
• coordinating and participating in patient rounds;
• developing a care plan with the patient and when appropriate involve family members and other health care/service Providers;
• providing information to patients and families on community services (i.e Meals on Wheels, housing options, day programs, private help, transportation, self help support groups);
• establishing goals, objectives and protocol for the delivery, monitoring and evaluation of renal care and services on PEI;
• planning collaboratively with team members for delivery of programs and services which reflect the Renal Program mission, vision, values and goals, philosophy of renal care, including health education, counseling and interventions to promote healthy living and reduce secondary complications;
• planning together with team members for delivery of programs and services which reflect the Renal Program, philosophy of renal care, including health education, counseling and interventions to promote healthy living and reduce secondary complications;
• conducting training on renal management to health professionals, community programs, health care centres, organizations and professional associations & performing other related duties as required.
• participating as a representative on Leadership Strategic planning and other renal committees
• managing patient funds (coupons for meals, bridge passes, rotary funds, Kidney Foundation applications)
• Acting as a liaison for patients that need access to community resources
• Giving presentations to health care professionals and community events

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduation from a recognized University with a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) with extensive social work experience in the Health Care sector or equivalent.
• Prior experience in Renal Social Work is preferred
• Eligible and in good standing with the PEI Social Work Registration Board
• Valid Driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Good previous work and attendance record
• Strong assessment and diagnostic skills for identifying psychosocial needs.
• Excellent counseling and support skills to assist patients and families.
• Knowledge of healthcare systems, community resources, and patient advocacy.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Cultural competence and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations
• Travel is required. Access to a reliable vehicle is required.

Looking for a rewarding healthcare career? Join Health PEI’s team and take advantage of our exciting incentive programs designed just for you! Learn more about how you can benefit and make a difference today!

Salary Range: $40.32 - $50.42 per hour

Bi-Weekly Hours: 75.0 Hours Bi-Weekly / Days / Evenings and Weekends as Required, Flexible Hours as Required