Overview:

The Social Worker provides social work case management to hospice patients and their families, addressing the psycho-social, practical, financial, and legal issues related to end-of-life care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide medical social work case management to an assigned group of patients and their families via in-person visits and telephone calls.
• Conduct psycho-social assessments of patients and families to identify their needs and develop individualized care plans.
• Educate patients and families about the dying process, coping strategies, and available resources.
• Advocate for patients' rights and ensure access to necessary services, including financial assistance, legal aid, and spiritual care.
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary hospice team (physicians, nurses, chaplains, aides, etc.) to provide holistic patient care.
• Act as a resource to interdisciplinary group members in cases where complex psycho-social problems exist.
• Assist interdisciplinary group members in understanding the significant social and emotional factors related to the care of terminally ill patients and families.
• Collaborate with Grief Support Services to ensure that family members at risk for complicated bereavement receive assessments and appropriate referrals for support.
• Complete an average of three (3) patient visits per day.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of patient interactions and services provided.
• Participate in community outreach and education programs to promote hospice services.
• Adhere to ethical guidelines and professional standards of social work practice.

Required Education:

• Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited institution.

Required Experience:

• Minimum of one (1) year of clinical experience relevant to the counseling and casework needs of hospice patients and families.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of social work principles, ethics, and best practices related to end-of-life care.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills.
• Ability to build rapport and establish trusting relationships with patients and families.
• Strong empathy, compassion, and sensitivity to the emotional needs of individuals facing serious illness and loss.
• Proficiency in documentation and maintaining accurate patient records.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to manage a caseload effectively and prioritize tasks.
• Knowledge of community resources and support services.
• Proficiency in using electronic health records and other relevant software.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience working with diverse populations and individuals facing end-of-life issues.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting psycho-social assessments, developing care plans, and providing counseling and support to patients and families.
• Experience collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to provide holistic patient care