Social Worker I

Overview

The primary purpose of the Social Worker I position is to be skilled in interventions for the support and/or resolution of patient and family crises as well as advocacy and facilitation necessitated by life-changing events. The role includes other functions such as discharge planning. The position functions with considerable autonomy in providing professional social work treatment and services to patients from newborn to elderly and understands the life cycle changes consistent with each age and their families related to their health care and general well-being.

Responsibilities

• Service provided is patient centered.
• Provides psychosocial assessment and counseling of patients and families relating to the social, emotional and cognitive capabilities of patients in relationship to their illness and health maintenance needs.
• Develops and implements social work plans and interventions efficiently and effectively to assure continuity of care.
• Utilizes community/hospital resources appropriately to meet patient/family needs
• Evidences understanding of who his/her customers are and the ability to assess and meet customer specific needs.
• Develops and presents an accurate Discharge Plan A and B for assigned patients, using the input of all involved disciplines, referral agencies and family members.
• Communicates patient condition accurately to the next level of care to facilitate a smooth transition.
• Suggests data studies to identify areas for quality improvement; collects data as requested.
• Is articulate within the social work profession and keeps up with the literature and best practices.Co-leads (with case mgr. partner) or actively participates in Care Coordination rounds that include key information and next steps.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Possession of a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from a professional school accredited by the Council of Social Work Education and two (2) years of post MSW experience in a medical setting preferred. Must be Licensed as an LSW “Licensed Social Worker” or LCSW “Licensed Clinical Social Worker” licensure by the State of New Jersey. Discharge planning experience in an acute care setting highly desirable. Monday through Friday position; occasionally may be required to follow a varied schedule which may include evenings, weekends and holidays.