Social Worker – Hospice

Job Summary:

The Hospice Social Worker will provide support and medical social services to terminally ill patients and their families in accordance with an appropriate plan of care.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Coordinates with members of the medical team in the development and implementation of a plan of care that may include at-home treatment and/or admission to an inpatient hospice facility. Evaluates patients referred for hospice services to assist in determining their appropriateness for admission. Assists with referrals to other agencies when a patient is not appropriate for hospice services.
• Assesses patient/family psychological responses to terminal illness and provides supportive counseling and teaching. Makes visits to patients and families at home or in other treatment facilities to perform essential duties.
• Explores and evaluates financial situations and assists patient/family in using appropriate resources. Assists patient/family in understanding and accessing benefits through Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance.
• Consults and assists with patient/family regarding funeral arrangements.
• Makes recommendations to the executive director regarding policies and procedures for social work services and bereavement care.
• Serves as a consultant to professional and community organizations with an interest in grief and bereavement.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in social work required.
• License from the state Board of Social Work Examiners.
• At least 1 year of post–master’s degree experience.
• A valid state driver’s license.
• Adherence to the goals, objectives, and philosophy of the hospice program.

Physical Requirements:

• Must have good mobility to make visits to a variety of home environments that may include walking on rough terrain and climbing steep stairs.
• Must have good hearing and speech ability to communicate with patients and family.
• Must have good vision for driving and for assessing patient’s physical condition.