Hospital Social Worker

About the role

The Hospital Social Worker separately or in collaboration with the Case Manager RN develops post-acute care plans with those patients having personal, social or environmental barriers to optimal wellness and successful post-acute recovery. The Social Worker intervenes with patients who have complex psychosocial needs, require assistance with eligibility determination for social programs and funding sources and qualify for community assistance from a variety of special funds and agencies. In addition, offers crisis intervention to patients and families with psychosocial needs and coordinates and facilitates the development of a discharge plan of care for high-risk patient populations. This position communicates with patients and their families to ensure every effort is directed toward helping them develop an adequate continuing care plan in preparation for discharge from the hospital. Assists patients and their families in resolving personal and environmental difficulties which predispose an individual to illness or interfere with obtaining maximum benefits from medical care.

Responsibilities

• Screens, assesses, and provides resources regarding the specific social drivers of health needs for patients and families
• Acts as expert in social drivers of health resources available in the community
• Refers patients to Behavioral Health as appropriate for formal assessment needs and/or outpatient services
• Provides education and support for food access and housing
• Coordinates the patient transportation program
• Aids families in crisis situations in understanding the implications and complexities of the patient’s medical situation and its impact on lifestyle
• Conducts financial assessment and referral services
• Arranges for in-home care and equipment

Requirements

• Bachelor's in Social Work required, Master's degree preferred
• Certified Clinical Social Worker license required in California
• Three to five years hospital social work experience preferred

Qualifications

• Compassionate, empathetic, and understanding individual
• Highly motivated, creative, and resourceful
• Exceptional communicator
• Proactive problem identifier and problem solver