Social Worker - Hospice

Embrace Hospice & Home Health • San Antonio, TX

397d

About The Position

The Social Worker at Embrace Hospice & Home Health is responsible for providing medical social work services to patients and their families during terminal illness. This role involves assessing psychosocial needs, providing counseling, and collaborating with an interdisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive care. The social worker also plays a crucial role in educating patients and families about advanced directives and community resources, while maintaining clinical records and participating in quality improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• A graduate of a master's program in social work (MSW) accredited by the Council on Social Work Education or a bachelor's program in social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in health care, with hospice experience preferred.
• Understanding of hospice philosophy and issues of death/dying.
• Demonstrates good verbal and written communication and organization skills.
• Current licensure according to Medicare guidelines to practice in the state of operation.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in hospice care preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assesses the psychosocial status of patients and families/caregivers related to the patient's terminal illness and environment.
• Provides an assessment in the patient's identified residence and assists when this is not safe, requiring another plan.
• Carries out social evaluations, including family dynamics, caregiver abilities, and high risks for suicide, neglect, or abuse, and plans intervention based on evaluation findings.
• Counsels patients and families/caregivers regarding stress and coping difficulties.
• Provides crisis intervention when necessary.
• Assesses and educates the interdisciplinary group on any special needs related to the culture of the patient and family.
• Maintains clinical records on all patients referred to social work.
• Educates patients and families on advanced directives and assists in their preparation.
• Provides information and referral services for practical and environmental needs.
• Serves as a liaison between patients, families/caregivers, and community agencies.
• Maintains collaborative relationships with organization personnel to support patient care.
• Participates in the development of the individualized plan of care and attends interdisciplinary group meetings.
• Assists physician and team members in understanding significant social and emotional factors related to health problems and death/dying issues.
• Actively participates in quality assessment performance improvement teams and activities.
• Assists family and patient in planning for funeral arrangements and decision responsibilities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree