Hospice MSW (Social Worker)

About the Role

The Medical Social Worker (MSW) is responsible for implementing standards of care for medical social work services provided to hospice patients and their families. As a core member of the Interdisciplinary Group, the MSW provides psychosocial support based on initial and ongoing assessments of needs, identified goals, interventions, and services. Services are delivered in accordance with the established plan of care, utilizing professional training and judgment to monitor the psychosocial process.

Responsibilities

• Assesses the psychosocial status of patients and families/caregivers related to the patient's terminal illness and environment; communicates findings to the registered nurse and other interdisciplinary group members.
• Provides assessments in the patient’s residence or assists in planning alternative arrangements when safety is a concern.
• Conducts social evaluations, including family dynamics, caregiver abilities, communication patterns, and risks for suicide, neglect, or abuse; plans interventions based on findings.
• Counsels patients and families/caregivers on stress and coping difficulties; provides crisis intervention as necessary.
• Assesses and educates the interdisciplinary group on cultural needs of the patient and family, including communication, family roles, traditions, and taboos.
• Educates patients and families on advanced directives and assists in their preparation.
• Participates in developing the individualized plan of care, involving the patient and family, and attends interdisciplinary group meetings to address psychosocial stresses impacting symptoms.
• Assists physicians and team members in understanding social and emotional factors related to health problems and end-of-life issues.
• Helps patients and families plan for funeral arrangements, financial, legal, and healthcare decision responsibilities.
• Completes, maintains, and submits accurate clinical notes regarding the patient’s condition and care; records changes and outcomes.
• Communicates with physicians regarding patient needs, reports changes in condition, and obtains physician orders as required.
• Coordinates care with community health-related persons and provides information and referral services for practical and environmental needs.
• Serves as a liaison between patients, families, and community agencies; maintains collaborative relationships with organization personnel.
• Develops and maintains contracts with public and private agencies as resources for patients and personnel.
• As a mandatory reporter, submits reports to the Washington Department of Health for non-compliance with WAC 246-335 and RCW 70.127 within 14 calendar days.
• Reports suspected abandonment, abuse, financial exploitation, or neglect of vulnerable adults to the Department of Social and Health Services and law enforcement immediately.
• Teaches coping techniques to patients and families as appropriate.
• Works with the interdisciplinary group to provide a safe environment and ensure continuity of care.
• Meets emotional needs of patients and families in cooperation with the hospice team; attends interdisciplinary group meetings.
• Participates in on-call duties as defined by policy.
• Assists the RN Case Manager in arranging equipment and necessary services.
• Assumes responsibility for personal growth and development; maintains and upgrades professional knowledge through continuing education and inservice classes.
• Fulfills case assignments and actively participates in quality assessment and performance improvement activities.
• Performs other delegated duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from a school accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in healthcare; hospice experience preferred.
• Understanding of hospice philosophy and issues related to death and dying.
• Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills.
• Must be a licensed driver with an insured, reliable automobile in good working order.
• CPR certification (must include hands-on skills demonstration observed by a certified trainer; internet-based certification alone is not sufficient).

An offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory references and a criminal background check as required by regulation.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged or considerable walking or standing.
• Visual acuity and hearing sufficient to perform required social work skills.