SOCIAL SERVICE SPECIALIST (30 HRS/WK DAYS)

Riverside Healthcare • Kankakee, IL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Social Service Specialist at Riverside Healthcare provides comprehensive psychosocial support to patients and their families. This role involves assessing patients' emotional, social, and practical needs and connecting them with resources that enhance their quality of life during their treatment and intervention. The Social Service Specialist is an integral part of the multidisciplinary team, offering counseling, advocacy, and coordination of care to help patients navigate the challenges of their diagnosis and treatment.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of experience in a social services role, preferably in a healthcare setting.
• Experience with patient advocacy, resource coordination, and crisis intervention is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of social services, community resources, and healthcare systems.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with patients and families.
• Ability to assess and address complex social and emotional issues effectively.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and electronic health record systems.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
• Bachelors degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field is required.
• Current and valid social work license (e.g., LSW, LCSW) is required.

Nice To Haves

• A Masters degree in Social Work (MSW) is preferred.
• Certification in social work or related fields is a plus

Responsibilities

• Conduct psychosocial assessments of patients and their families to identify emotional, social, and practical needs.
• Provide individual and group counseling to patients and families, addressing issues such as coping with their diagnosis, treatment-related stress, and end-of-life planning.
• Connect patients and families with community resources, support groups, financial assistance programs, and other services that can help alleviate the burden of their treatment.
• Identify and address patients social determinants of health needs by coordinating timely interventions, referrals, and community-based resources to support health outcomes and reduce barriers to care.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop and implement comprehensive care plans that address the psychosocial aspects of patient care.
• Advocate for patients' rights and needs within the healthcare system, ensuring that they have access to the services and support they require.
• Provide crisis intervention services to patients and families facing acute emotional distress or emergencies related to their diagnosis.
• Educate patients, families, and staff on psychosocial issues related to their illnesses, including coping strategies, stress management, and the importance of mental health during treatment.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all patient interactions, assessments, and care plans in accordance with regulatory and organizational standards.
• Demonstrates flexibility with assignments within professional scope/duties/licensure
• Adhere to AIDET format and standards. Acknowledge and greet all customers timely with a professional and friendly demeanor.
• Assist in the development and implementation of psychosocial support programs and initiatives within the Population Health Program.
• Provide training and support to healthcare staff on the psychosocial aspects of their care and the role of social work in population health.
• Participate in community outreach activities to raise awareness about the psychosocial impact of their illnesses and available support services.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off programs
• medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
• Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
• Educational Assistance Program
• Paid Leave Hours accrued as you work

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level