Instructor, Social Worker for Elder Abuse Intervention in Primary Care

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

27d•$40,000 - $80,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Division of Geriatrics is seeking a compassionate social worker to join our multidisciplinary team in a geriatrics. This provider will help lead the development and implementation of a new elder abuse intervention program, embedded into primary care. This is a grant funded position and will include direct clinical care, administrative duties, and participation in research activities. This integrated care management and behavioral health position will provide comprehensive care coordination, resource navigation, and evidenced-based interventions to older adults experiencing mistreatment and their families or support networks. This position will work in close collaboration with the medical team, including geriatricians, clinical pharmacists, nurses, medical assistants, and care managers. This position will also include outreach work with adult protective services, law enforcement, and other community providers. This is a 0.5-1.0 FTE position, including actively participating in Division of Geriatrics meetings, clinical care conferences, and university service/committee work.

Requirements

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
Master’s degree in social work from an accredited institution.
Current and unrestricted Colorado state licensure as an LMSW, LSW, or LCSW.

Nice To Haves

Ideal candidates will have at least 5 years of experience in care management, integrated behavioral health in primary care, healthcare settings, protective services, victims services, or other relevant clinical experience.
Expertise in evidence-based behavioral interventions and psychotherapies (e.g., motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, etc.).
Experience working with older adults and knowledge of common behavioral and physical health issues among older adults (e.g., chronic disease management, sleep disruption, depression/anxiety, cognitive decline, grief, caregiver stress, etc.).
Clinical skills conducting brief and targeted assessments to provide evidence-based brief interventions, health and behavior change, and triage for appropriate level of care.
A growth mindset that supports flexibility and adaptability in an evolving healthcare environment.
Works well with diverse patient populations.
Works effectively both as part of a team and independently.
Comfort working with a wide variety of teams including clinics, home health care, adult protection, and law enforcement agencies.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clinic providers and staff.
Works effectively on multiple tasks and maintains a well-organized work environment.
Excellent communication skills and ability to work with professionals across disciplines.
Maintains confidentiality in accordance with ethical codes and state and federal laws.

Responsibilities

Care Coordination & Case Management Assess the psychosocial needs of geriatric patients and families dealing with elder mistreatment
Develop and implement individualized care plans in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team
Identify and connect patients with appropriate community resources, including transportation, housing, and financial assistance.
Assist patients in applying for public benefits, including Medicaid, Medicare, and long-term care services
Advocate for patients and address barriers to care, including socioeconomic factors and health literacy issues
Serves as a liaison between the patient, healthcare providers, and other community agencies Behavioral Health & Clinical Care Using motivational interviewing and restorative practices to engage patients and supportive loved ones in care
Offers crisis intervention and support for patients experiencing abuse and neglect
Coordinates referrals to specialty mental health services when indicated, ensuring continuity of care.
Participate in QI projects and facilitates group visits as needed.
Administrative & Research Activities Help schedule meetings with research team members
Complete data auditing
Contribute to team discussions regarding research methodology