Medical Social Worker

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in California.

📋 Description

• The Medical Social Worker evaluates the psychosocial conditions of patients and their families/caregivers concerning the patient's terminal illness and surroundings, and shares insights with the registered nurse and other members of the interdisciplinary team.

• Conducts assessments in the patient's designated living space and provides support when the environment is unsafe, necessitating an alternative plan.

• Performs social evaluations that encompass family dynamics, caregiver capabilities, communication patterns, and risks related to suicide, neglect, or abuse, and formulates interventions based on the assessment results.

• Offers counseling to patients and their families/caregivers as required concerning stress and other identified coping challenges.

• Delivers crisis intervention as needed.

• Evaluates and educates the interdisciplinary team about any unique needs associated with the patient and family's culture.

• Includes elements such as communication, family roles, spatial considerations, and any specific traditions or taboos.

• Maintains clinical records for all patients referred to social work and prepares clinical and progress notes.

• Educates patients and their families about, and aids in, the preparation of advanced directives.

• The Medical Social Worker offers information and referral services for organizational patients and their families/caregivers regarding practical and environmental needs.

• Provides information to patients, families/caregivers, and community agencies.

• Acts as a liaison between patients, families/caregivers, and community agencies.

• The Medical Social Worker fosters collaborative relationships with organizational personnel to enhance patient care.

• Develops and maintains contracts with public and private agencies as resources for patients and staff.

• Participates in creating individualized care plans, involving patients and families, and attends regularly scheduled interdisciplinary meetings, aiding the team in recognizing the psychosocial impacts on symptoms of terminal illness.

• Assists physicians and other team members in understanding significant social and emotional factors related to health issues and end-of-life considerations.

• The Social Worker actively engages in quality assessment performance improvement teams and related activities.

• Aids families and patients in planning for funeral arrangements, as well as financial, legal, and healthcare decision-making responsibilities. Other tasks may be assigned by the Clinical Supervisor/Nursing Supervisor.

⛳️ Requirements

• A graduate of a bachelor's degree program in social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

• Complies with personnel qualifications outlined in §418.114(b)(3).

• At least one (1) year of experience in healthcare, preferably in hospice.

• Familiar with hospice philosophy and the issues surrounding death and dying.

• Experience in hospice care is preferred.

• Exhibits strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills.

• Holds and maintains current CPR Certification.

• Must possess a licensed automobile that is insured per state and/or organizational requirements and is in good working condition.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

• Supportive work environment with a focus on team collaboration.

• Flexible work hours to promote work-life balance.