Summary/Objective

The social worker provides social work services to patients and families in collaboration with the health care team.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Patient Care

1. Assesses patient psychosocial status, social work needs and living conditions utilizing professional knowledge, skills or observations and interviewing skills.
2. Makes referrals to other community services, as necessary.
3. Travels to patient homes to deliver direct service to the client.
4. May respond to emergent psychosocial needs of patient and families as requested.
5. Provides advocacy to client and/or family, e.g., assistance in obtaining entitlements and community services.
6. Complies with agency policies and procedures. Promotes and maintains an agency environment in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
7. Assists other team members in understanding the significance of social and emotional factors related to the patient health problems.

Communication

1. Prepares clinical notes and updates the primary physician when necessary and at least every 60 days.
2. Communicates with the physician and care team regarding the patient’s needs and reports any changes in the patient’s condition.
3. Communicates with community health related persons to coordinate the care plan.

Additional Duties

1. Attend in-service training and mandatory agency meetings.
2. Maintains a professional appearance.

Education and Experience 

1. Master’s degree in Social Work with a minimum of one year social work in healthcare setting.
2. Current licensure in state.
3. Excellent observation, verbal and written communication skills, and problem solving skills. 
4. Prolonged or considerable walking or standing. Able to lift, position or transfer patients. Able to lift supplies and equipment. Considerable reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling or crouching. Visual acuity and hearing to perform required nursing skills.

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

1. Able to relate positively, effectively, and appropriately with patients, families, community members, and providers. 
2. Able to read, write, speak and understand English.
3. Meets all health requirements, as required by law. 
4. Demonstrates basic computer knowledge and ability with an aptitude to learn company applications.