Medical Social Worker

Job Posting: Medical Social Worker

Location: North County, Escondido, Temecula, Fallbrook, Murrieta, Vista, San Marcos, Encinitas, La Jolla, Carlsbad

Company: Takara Hospice

Job Description

Takara Hospice, a committed pioneer in providing exceptional end-of-life care, is currently looking for a compassionate and skilled Medical Social Worker to join our team. This part-time position plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of care our patients receive during their most critical times. It's important to note that this role is not eligible for remote work and requires the candidate’s presence onsite to effectively manage the needs of our patients and their families.

The successful candidate will be dedicated to delivering comprehensive psychosocial and emotional support, ensuring that patients' end-of-life care is as comfortable and dignified as possible. By joining our team, you will contribute directly to our mission of providing patient-centered care tailored to the individual needs of patients and their families.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assesses the psychosocial status of patients and families/caregivers related to the patient's terminal illness and environment and communicates findings to the registered nurse and other members of the interdisciplinary group. Provides an assessment in the patient's identified residence and assistance when this is not safe and another plan is required.
• Carries out social evaluations, including family dynamics, caregiver abilities, communication patterns, high-risks for suicide, neglect or abuse and plans intervention based on evaluation findings. Counsels patient and family/caregivers as needed in relation to stress, and other identified coping difficulties. Provides crisis intervention when necessary.
• Assesses for, and educates interdisciplinary group, on any special needs related to the culture of the patient and family. Includes communication, role of family, space, and any special traditions or taboos.
• Maintains clinical records on all patients referred to social work.
• Educates patients and families on, and assists in, preparation of advanced directives.
• Provides information and referral services for organization patients and families/caregivers regarding practical and environmental needs.
• Provides information to patients and families/caregivers and community agencies.
• Serves as liaison between patients and families/caregivers and community agencies.
• Maintains collaborative relationships with organization personnel to support patient care.
• Maintains and develops contracts with public and private agencies as resources for patient and personnel.
• Participates in the development of the individualized plan of care, involving the patient and family, and attends regularly scheduled interdisciplinary group meetings, assisting the team in recognizing the effects of the psychosocial stresses on the symptoms of the terminal illness.
• Assists physician and other team members in understanding significant social and emotional factors related to health problems and death/dying issues.
• Actively participates in quality assessment performance improvement teams and activities.
• Assists family and patient in planning for funeral arrangements, financial, legal, and health care decision responsibilities.
• Other duties as delegated by the Clinical Supervisor.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
• Current state license as a Social Worker.
• Minimum of two years of experience in health care, preferably in a hospice, hospital, or home care setting.
• Demonstrated ability to cope with family emotional stress and tolerance of individual lifestyles.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with other disciplines.
• Knowledge of and ability to obtain community resources (information and referral).
• Ability to work independently, maintain confidentiality of information and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrate problem-solving skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to advocate and provide holistic care with respect to cultural, ethnic, spiritual, socioeconomic, and sexual diversity.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to navigate electronic medical records and basic proficiency with office software.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and have access to a reliable vehicle for home visits.

Location: North County, Escondido, Temecula, Fallbrook, Murrieta, Vista, San Marcos, Encinitas, La Jolla, Carlsbad