Part-time Hospice Social Worker

Job Title/Position: Hospice Social Worker
Reports To: Social Work Supervisor

We are seeking a full and part-time candidate. Her or his responsibility is to act as a Social Worker on our interdisciplinary team. There is room for growth and development of skills.

Job Description Summary

The social worker is responsible for the implementation of standards of care for medical social work services and for adherence to all conditions in the Employment Agreement.

Essential Job Functions/Responsibilities

• Assesses the psychosocial status of patients and families/caregivers related to the patient's terminal illness and environment and communicates findings to the registered nurse and other members of the interdisciplinary group. Provides an assessment in the patient's identified residence and assistance when this is not safe, and another plan is required.
• Carries out social evaluations, including family dynamics, caregiver abilities, communication patterns, high-risks for suicide, neglect or abuse and plans intervention based on evaluation findings. Counsels patient and family/caregivers as needed in relationship to stress, and other identified coping difficulties. Provides crisis intervention when necessary.
• Participates in the development of the individualized plan of care, involving the patient and family, and attends regularly scheduled interdisciplinary group meetings, assisting the team in recognizing the effects of the psychosocial stresses on the symptoms of the terminal illness.
• Assesses for, and educates interdisciplinary group, on any special needs related to the culture of the patient and family potentially including communication, role of family, space, and any special traditions or taboos. Additionally, assists physician and other team members in understanding significant social and emotional factors related to health problems and death/dying issues.
• Educates patients and families on, and assists in, preparation of advanced directives as well as pre-planning for funeral arrangements, financial, legal, and health care decision responsibilities.
• Provides information and referral services for organization as well as patients and families/caregivers regarding practical and environmental needs, acting as a liaison between patients and families/caregivers and community agencies.
• Actively participates in quality assessment performance improvement teams and activities as well as evaluation of services. Activities include in-service education, personnel meetings, committees, and training.
• Accepts and performs other related duties and responsibilities as required and/or as delegated by Supervisors.

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.

Position Qualifications

• A graduate of a bachelor’s or master’s program in social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Meets personnel qualifications stated in §418.114(b)(3). A master’s degree is preferred.
• An active Illinois license in social work (LSW) is required.
• Minimum of one (1) year's experience in a health care setting, hospice preferred.
• Must demonstrate a knowledge and commitment to the hospice philosophy as well as a familiarity of issues related to death/dying and bereavement coordination.
• Must have experience with counseling individuals and/or in groups; grief counseling preferred.
• Demonstrates good verbal and written communication, as well as organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team setting.
• Possesses and maintains current CPR Certification.
• Must be a licensed driver with an automobile that is insured in accordance with state of Illinois requirements and is in good working order.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $28.00 - $31.25 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 24 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off

Work Location: On the road