The Lifecare Institute: Social Worker

The LifeCare Social Worker works under the general direction of the Community Outreach Coordinator. The LifeCare Social Worker serves as a member of the Team, providing support to patients and their families related to palliative and end of life care, including providing resources, education, support and counseling to patients and their families. This role is responsible for provision of services consistent with the mission, vision, and goals of HWC, quality outcomes and regulatory standards.

Education

• Masters Degree in Social Work by accredited educational program

Licensures/Certifications:

• Licensure as Social Worker, LMSW; LCSW preferred – MD and PA
• Valid driver’s license, car insurance and reliable car

​ Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of work experience as a Social Worker preferred

Skills:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Patient & Workplace Safety

• Employee has knowledge and understanding of patient and workforce safety as it relates to job duties.

Patient Population

• Demonstrates competency in the delivery of care and applies the knowledge to meet age-specific needs if applicable.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provides social services assessments for current and new palliative care patients at initial visit and subsequent visits as needed using the format directed by the physician of palliative care.
• Prepares and maintains accurate patient records, charts and documents to support LifeCare reimbursement for billable services.
• Addresses goals of care and assesses physical, emotional, spiritual, and care-giving support for each patient as needed.
• Serves as a liaison with community resources to provide patients with options for immediate needs
• Regularly communicates and collaborates assessment findings with the palliative nurse practitioner and other team members as needed
• Addresses goals of care and end-of-life planning by reviewing MOLST, Advance Directives and Power of Attorney needs with patients and families
• Provides information to assist with options of care should patient and families need to address declining conditions and locations of care
• Assist LifeCare office team in maintaining and providing a complete EMR record.
• Documents all information according to LifeCare’s policies and procedures.
• Assists patients/families with securing counseling and bereavement services as needed
• Assists in the promotion of and the growth strategies of palliative care and hospice.
• Participates in Interdisciplinary team meetings as established by provider
• Promotes education and understanding of palliative care to the general community, medical providers, and other resources
• Models prompt and regular attendance.
• Exhibits cost effective use of time, mileage and supplies.
• Demonstrates familiarity with and adheres to LifeCare policies and procedures, state, federal, and accrediting agency’s requirements.
• Provides notification of absence per HWC policy.
• Promotes and maintains respect for rights, privacy, and confidentiality of others.  Respects patient and staff confidentiality at all times.
• Participates in committees, task forces and palliative events as requested.
• Attends staff meetings, mandatory in-services, and other meetings as appropriate.
• Assumes responsibility for own personal and professional growth including state licensing/certification requirements
• Performs specific assignments as directed by the provider or designee.
• Understands and exemplifies hospice philosophy, values, beliefs and team concepts in all job-related roles.

• Wears identification/name badge during working hours according to HWC’s policy.
• Other duties assigned.

All roles must demonstrate GBMC Values:

Respect

I will treat everyone with courtesy. I will foster a healing environment.

• Treats others with fairness, kindness, and respect for personal dignity and privacy

• Listens and responds appropriately to others’ needs, feelings, and capabilities

Excellence

I will strive for superior performance in every aspect of my work. I will recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of others.

• Meets and/or exceeds customer expectations
• Actively pursues learning and self-development
• Pays attention to detail; follows through

Accountability

I will be professional in the way I act, look and speak. I will take ownership to solve pr