Hospice Medical Social Worker, MSW

VitalCaring Group•Pryor Creek, OK

6d•Onsite

About The Position

VitalCaring is seeking a Master’s Social Worker (MSW) to provide patient- and family-centered psychosocial support in hospice care. This field-based role supports patients and loved ones as they navigate terminal illness and end-of-life care, helping them cope, plan, access resources, and feel supported throughout the hospice journey. The social worker is an essential member of the interdisciplinary hospice team and helps promote dignity, comfort, and quality of life. The position involves assessing psychosocial needs, providing counseling and crisis support, assisting with end-of-life planning and practical needs, connecting families with community resources, and collaborating with patients, families, caregivers, and the hospice care team. The role also requires maintaining timely clinical documentation, communicating patient and family needs, and upholding professional and regulatory standards. VitalCaring describes the work as autonomous and flexible, with ongoing training and professional development. The organization was founded in 2021 and has more than 100 locations nationwide.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW).
Meet applicable hospice personnel qualifications.
At least 1 year of experience as an MSW in a hospice setting.
Understanding of hospice philosophy and issues related to death and dying.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work tactfully with patients, families, caregivers, and community partners.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and automobile insurance when making home visits.
Compassion, emotional intelligence, and comfort supporting people through terminal illness, grief, loss, and end-of-life decisions.
Ability to navigate complex family dynamics with empathy and professionalism.
Strong crisis intervention, counseling, and problem-solving skills.
Resourceful, collaborative, and solution-oriented approach.
Respect for diverse cultural beliefs, traditions, and perspectives.

Responsibilities

Assess patients’ and families’ psychosocial needs related to terminal illness, coping, family dynamics, and the home environment.
Provide counseling, emotional support, and guidance to patients and caregivers throughout the hospice journey.
Identify psychosocial risks and provide appropriate interventions and crisis support when needed.
Help patients and families navigate emotional and practical challenges associated with end-of-life care.
Provide culturally sensitive support that respects individual beliefs, traditions, values, and family dynamics.
Educate and assist patients and families with advance directives and healthcare decision-making.
Connect patients and families with community resources and support services.
Assist with practical needs related to financial, legal, healthcare, and funeral planning.
Serve as a resource to patients and caregivers as needs evolve.
Participate with patients, families, and the interdisciplinary team in developing individualized plans of care.
Attend interdisciplinary group meetings and share insight into psychosocial factors affecting patients and families.
Partner with physicians, nurses, and other team members to support holistic end-of-life care.
Help the care team understand significant social and emotional factors related to terminal illness, death, and dying.
Maintain accurate and timely clinical records, assessments, and progress notes.
Communicate patient and family needs to the interdisciplinary care team.
Serve as a liaison among patients, families, caregivers, and community agencies.
Participate in quality improvement activities and uphold professional and regulatory standards.