Main Function

Evaluates, diagnoses, and treats a wide range of psycho-social problems, applying individual clinical social work skills to assist patients and their families in the resolution of personal and environmental problems attributable to mental or physical illness, which prevent them from achieving their highest level of functioning. Provides skilled assessments, plans and interventions for the support and/or resolution of patient and family crises; problem-solving and decision-making; advocacy and facilitation necessitated by life-changing events (guardianship, abuse, discharge planning, bereavement, end of life issues, financial issues, managed care companies/third party payer matters, Senior Friendly ED/Elder Care, Palliative Care etc); mediation of risk factors and coping with disease or disability. Works closely with the RN Case Manager, Nurse Manager and Physician to effectively manage all patients’ needs and develop a safe discharge plan and smooth transition through the continuum of care.

Education/Experience

Master’s Degree in Social Work from an accredited graduate school with LI.C.S.W. (or working toward LICSW) is required. Training and experience necessary to address the specific needs of the patients served in assigned area of responsibility; this includes issues relating to age and stage of development and their particular special needs and cultural patterns of the patient population being served. Analytical and therapy skills necessary to evaluate patients, develop treatment plans, initiate supportive counseling, and evaluate results. Knowledge of community resources and managed care companies/third party payers. Ability to effectively interact with patients, families, medical staff, and outside agencies in providing service. Minimum 2 years experience in acute medical/surgical setting or 1 year case management with exposure to community resources. Home Care/Hospice care experience preferred. Must have strong knowledge base of community resources especially financial assistant resources.

Interrelationships:

Patient Contact/Age Groups Served: Adult Elders (Adolescent/ Pediatric in ED)

Internal Contacts: Individual contact with all levels of hospital employees, clinical care teams, physicians, patients, family members/significant others.

External Contacts: Requires interaction with outside medical personnel, managed care companies/third party payers, regulatory agencies, community agencies, referral sources, state officials, other hospitals, mental health and substance abuse/behavioral health agencies, DCYF, Alliance, Indigent programs, shelters, and DEA.

Working conditions, Physical Environment and/or Safety Requirements, Physical Environment and/or Safety Requirements: works in a well-lighted and well-ventilated area. Must meet annual safety requirements relative to a safe work place. Must meet health-testing requirements such as TB skin test annually and fit testing. Frequent patient contact requires adherence to standard precautions at all times. May be required to lift heavy objects weighing 25 pounds from time to time.