Position Title: Medical Social Worker - BSW
Job Code: 550P01
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Entity: Hospice of the Valley
Reports To: Manager of Psychosocial Services
MISSION
Our Mission is to extend the compassionate ministry of Jesus by improving the health and well-being of our communities and bring good help to those in need, especially people who are poor, dying and underserved.
SUMMARY OF JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
The medical social worker contracted or employed through the organization is responsible for the implementation of standards of care for medical social work services and for adherence to all conditions in the Service or Employment Agreement.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Is a graduate of a Bachelor program in social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
A minimum of one year's experience in health care, hospice or home health experience preferred. Understands hospice philosophy, and issues of death/dying.
Has a valid driver’s license and is insured in accordance with state and/or organizational requirements.
Licensed as required by State.
Is flexible and cooperative in fulfilling role obligation and has ability to work within an interdisciplinary team.
Has thorough knowledge of local and state human services agencies.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:
Assesses the psychosocial status of patients/families/caregivers related to the patient's terminal illness and environment. Provides an assessment in the patient's identified residence and assistance when this is not safe and another plan is required.
Assesses patient potential risk of suicide and/or potential for abuse or neglect.
Evaluate the need for future planning and assess ability of patient/family/caregiver to accept change in level of case.
Completes psychosocial assessments and develops interventions based on evaluation findings and needs. Provides direction, guidance and supportive counseling to patients and families to assist in coping with terminal illness.
Maintains clinical records on all patients referred to social work.
Provides information to patients/families/caregivers and community agencies.
Serves as liaison between patients/families/caregivers and community agencies.
Maintains collaborative relationships with organization personnel to support patient care.
Maintains and develops contacts with public and private agencies as resources for patient and personnel.
Participates in the development of the plan of care and attends case conferences weekly.
Assists physician and other team members in understanding significant social and emotional factors related to health problems and death/dying issues.
Participates in discharge planning when needed. Assists patient/family/caregiver with advanced care planning, funeral arrangements and any other identified psychosocial needs.
Maintain caseload standards and productivity goals set forth by Manager of Psychosocial Services.
Provide patient and family centered care that remains in compliance with standards/requirements set forth by CMS and NHPCO, accrediting body and Agency policies and procedures.
Participates in in service programs.
Other duties as delegated by the Manager of Psychosocial Services.
Participates in bereavement group and support meetings as needed.
The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.
CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Hospice personnel are expected to participate in appropriate continuing education as may be requested and/or required by their immediate supervisor. In addition, hospice personnel are expected to accept personal responsibility for other educational activities to enhance job related skills and abilities. All personnel must attend mandatory educational programs.
