Social Worker (BSW)

Description

Become part of an inclusive organization with over 40,000 teammates, whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of the unique communities we serve. You will serve as a core member of the interdisciplinary team implementing a novel, comprehensive, community-based dementia care program. This role supports UNC Health’s Memory Connect program—a virtual, interdisciplinary, primary care–integrated dementia care model—by providing comprehensive social work services to people living with dementia and their caregivers.

Summary

You will play a vital role in providing support, resources, and advocacy for patients and their families. You will be responsible for facilitating resources, advocating for patients' rights, actively listening to their concerns, demonstrating respect for individuality, building trust, and obtaining, interpreting, and communicating necessary information regarding patients and families, including bio-psychosocial history information.

Responsibilities

• Resource Facilitation:

• Gather bio-psychosocial history information from patients and their families to assess their needs and develop appropriate care plans.
• Consult with licensed healthcare staff or physicians to ensure accurate and comprehensive communication of patient information.
• Effectively document and share relevant information to facilitate continuity of care and promote interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Assess patients' needs and connect them with appropriate resources, such as housing assistance, healthcare services, financial aid, and community support programs.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and community organizations to develop and maintain a comprehensive referral network.
• Serve as a strong advocate for patients, promoting their rights and ensuring their voices are heard.
• Collaborate with patients to identify and address systemic barriers and social inequalities that impact their well-being.
• Liaise between patients and external agencies, advocating for their needs and interests to improve their access to services and resources.

• Active Listening:

• Utilize active listening skills to create a safe and supportive environment for patients to express their concerns, emotions, and needs.
• Empathize with patients' experiences and validate their feelings, providing non-judgmental and compassionate support.
• Actively engage in effective communication to accurately understand and address patients' unique situations.

• Respect for Individuality:

• Recognize and embrace the diversity of patients' backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and values.
• Foster an inclusive and culturally sensitive environment, ensuring that services are provided with respect and without discrimination.
• Tailor interventions and support strategies to meet the individual needs and preferences of each patient.
• Establish and maintain a trusting and therapeutic relationship with patients based on professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical guidelines.
• Demonstrate empathy, compassion, and integrity in all interactions with patients and their families.
• Maintain clear boundaries while providing appropriate support and guidance.

Professional Experience Requirements

• Previous related experience preferred, but not required.

Knowledge/Skills/and Abilities Requirements

• Knowledge of local community resources, social services, and healthcare systems.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Commitment to maintaining professional standards and ethical guidelines.