Social Services

Southwest LTC•Oklahoma City, OK

About The Position

Directs and supervises the social service program at Heritage at Brandon Place in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Evaluates the social needs of each admitted patient and formulates a written plan of care, reviewing and revising it as needed and at least quarterly. Refers patients and families to appropriate community resources and is responsible to the Administrator. The role supports patients and families throughout admission, care, and discharge; coordinates with facility departments and outside professionals; documents social needs and progress; and assists with resident activities and access to community resources. The position also conducts staff in-service training on social services and helps develop a community volunteer program.

Requirements

Genuine interest in elderly people.
Patience and tactfulness.
Good listening skills.
Ability to execute a social service program appropriate to patients' needs and interests.
Knowledge of the special needs and limitations of elderly people.
Ability to recognize situations in which referral is indicated.
Sufficient understanding and self-discipline to relate to patients' needs and feelings.
Interest in learning and advancement.
Ability to work congenially with others.
Ability to work hours assigned by the Administrator.
Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis screening examination.

Responsibilities

Plan and organize a social service program according to established policies.
Assist in coordinating resident transfers.
Handle telephone calls and interview each patient and family on admission.
Coordinate services with other departments.
Complete a Social History for each patient.
Identify and evaluate personal, emotional, and environmental concerns.
Formulate a written plan of care for each admitted patient.
Review and update plans of care according to established policies, at least quarterly.
Record continuing progress notes on patients' social needs and their responses to social services.
Manage the discharge plan.
Assess spiritual needs and facilitate participation in religious activities.
Participate in the development and review of the Total Care Plan.
Assist with developing a community volunteer program.
Conduct an annual in-service on social services for all staff.
Assist in coordinating the Resident Council.
Help patients open and read incoming mail and address and post outgoing mail at their request.
Assemble and maintain information about community resources and help other staff use those resources.
Help locate and arrange services from other professionals or agencies to address patients' problems and needs.
Participate regularly in case conferences with nurses and other staff to improve understanding of patients and their families.
Help patients and families in need locate funds for items such as dentures and glasses.
Participate in pre-admission screening of prospective patients whenever possible.
Conduct facility tours and orientation for new patients and families.
Listen to residents.
Perform other tasks as assigned by the Supervisor.