Dialysis Social Worker

About the role

The Department of Ambulatory Dialysis at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University is seeking a full-time TH Social Worker 2 / Dialysis Social Worker.

Responsibilities

• Conduct psychosocial assessments: conduct thorough evaluations to understand the patient's emotional, social, and financial situation related to their kidney disease.
• Perform individualized care planning: develop tailored plans to address specific needs identified during assessments, including coping strategies, resource referrals, and treatment goals.
• Conduct counseling and support: Provide individual and group therapy to help patients manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges related to their diagnosis.
• Perform patient education: educate patients and their families about CKD, dialysis treatment options, and available community resources.
• Be an advocate: act as a patient advocate by communicating with healthcare providers, Insurance companies, and other agencies to ensure access to necessary care and benefits.
• Oversee resource linkage: Connect patients with relevant community services such as financial assistance, transportation, housing support, and vocational rehabilitation.
• Demonstrate collaboration with healthcare team: Work closely with nephrologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care and address complex needs.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) with a specialization in clinical practice from a school of social work accredited by the Council of Social Work Education; Or has serviced at least 2 years as a social worker, 1 year of which was in a dialysis unit or transportation program prior to September 1, 1976.
• New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
• Understanding of kidney disease and dialysis treatment modalities.
• Strong assessment and counseling skills.
• Excellent communication and Interpersonal skills to build rapport with patients and their families.
• Knowledge of community resources and referral networks.
• Ability to navigate complex medical systems and advocate for patients.
• Or, a satisfactory equivalent combination of experience, education and training to the above.