Medical Social Associate (Discharge Planner), Correctional Medicine

University of Illinois Chicago•Rockford, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Medical Social Associate (Discharge Planner) serves individuals returning to society from the Winnebago County Jail. The role provides social services, educational information, referrals and follow-up, Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) assessment, insurance enrollment assistance, appointment scheduling before release, collaboration with the judicial system, and coordination with medical and psychiatry services before discharge. The position is based on the UIC Rockford campus and works with a multidisciplinary team to assess needs, develop care plans, advocate for clients, connect them with community resources, and document services. Illinois residency is required within 180 days of employment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree with a major in social or behavioral science or a related health specialty from an accredited college or university, or a master's degree in social or behavioral science or a related health specialty area from an accredited college or university.
One year (12 months) of progressively more responsible full-time experience in social services or agencies, or in a medical/clinical setting, maintaining acceptable standards of social work practices.
Illinois residency within 180 days of employment.
Submit college transcripts and a list of three professional references with the application.

Responsibilities

Provide guidance on social services to inmates, including assessments, case planning, follow-up, and documentation in the electronic medical record.
Prepare care plans describing needed services and how medical, drug treatment, and social-service needs will be assessed.
Advocate for clients to obtain necessary and appropriate services, and provide referrals and follow-up within a multidisciplinary team.
Provide information about university and agency services and help patients access support such as disability benefits, food pantries, guardianship, Meals on Wheels, housing or homeless shelters, child care assistance, homemaker services, home health, Department of Aging services, parenting classes, transportation, and mental health, substance abuse, or domestic abuse counseling.
Assist patients with health insurance enrollment; certification as a Certified Application Counselor is required for this work.
Assemble and maintain statistical information for administration, including daily work logs.
Maintain complete and accurate files on community resources.
Participate in local coordinating committee meetings.
Perform other duties as assigned.