Description
The social worker is responsible for delivering medical social work services, ensuring patients and families receive psychosocial support, and complying with all care standards and organizational agreements.
Key Responsibilities
1. Patient & Family Assessment
- Evaluate psychosocial status of patients and caregivers
- Assess living conditions and safety
- Communicate findings to the care team (especially nurses and interdisciplinary group)
2. Social & Emotional Support
- Conduct social evaluations (family dynamics, caregiver ability, communication patterns)
- Identify risks (e.g., suicide, neglect, abuse)
- Provide counseling and coping support
- Deliver crisis intervention when needed
3. Cultural Awareness
- Assess cultural needs of patients and families
- Educate care team on cultural considerations (communication, traditions, family roles)
4. Documentation
- Maintain accurate clinical records for all social work cases
5. Advance Care Planning
- Educate and assist with advance directives
6. Resource Coordination
- Provide referrals for community resources
- Help address practical and environmental needs
7. Communication & Liaison Work
- Act as a bridge between patients, families, and community agencies
- Share relevant information with stakeholders
8. Collaboration
- Work closely with healthcare staff to support patient care
9. Community Networking
- Develop and maintain relationships with public and private agencies
Requirements
Education
- Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program
OR - Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program (must meet regulatory requirements)
Experience
- Minimum 1 year of healthcare experience
- Hospice experience preferred
- Understanding of hospice philosophy and end-of-life care
Skills & Competencies
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Good organizational skills
- Ability to address death/dying issues and emotional factors
Certifications & Licensure
- CPR certification required
- Must meet applicable state licensure requirements (if applicable)
Other Requirements
- Valid driver’s license
- Reliable, insured vehicle in good working condition