Hospice Social Worker - 1.0 FTE

Job Summary

The Hospice Social Worker participates with the interdisciplinary team of primary care physicians, medical director, nurses, physical therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, chaplain and volunteer staff. The Hospice Social Worker also completes thorough assessments of the patient’s bio-psychosocial situation and provides a vital role in developing a safe and appropriate plan of care. The Hospice Social Worker serves as an advocate for the patient and family throughout their entire episodes of care.

Job Duties

• Support patients and families throughout the hospice episode of care, including navigating the healthcare system and accessing needed resources.
• Provide emotional support, education, and counseling for patients and families coping with chronic or terminal illness and end-of-life needs.
• Conduct comprehensive bio-psychosocial assessments and ongoing reassessments to guide individualized care planning.
• Participate in daily interdisciplinary huddles and IDG meetings, sharing psychosocial, emotional, spiritual, and financial insights that impact care.
• Help patients and families understand medical information, treatment plans, and available care options.
• Assist with advance directives, POLST forms, medical power of attorney, and guardianship processes.
• Connect patients and families with community resources such as transportation, meals, respite care, and long-term care placement.
• Support patients in accessing insurance, disability benefits, and financial assistance programs (VA, SSI, Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance).
• Provide bereavement support and link families to grief counseling and other supportive services.
• Cook up with hospice chaplains for faith-based support and with medical facilities for DME or travel-related needs.
• Uphold hospice philosophy and maintain professional development in social work practice.

Knowledge/Experience

• Has demonstrated ability to deliver competent, appropriate care and coordination of a medical treatment plan that is ordered and approved by the primary care provider and/or medical director.
• At least one-year social work experience in a healthcare setting required.
• Knowledge of acute, chronic disease, and terminal illness preferred.
• Experience in community-based programs, home health and/or hospice preferred.

Education

• Minimum of a Master’s degree in social work from an institution accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
• Must be licensed or working on LSW or LCSW.
• Must be licensed to work in MT.