Benefits:

401(k)

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Wellness resources

Job Overview:

As a Full-Time Medical Social Worker, you will be responsible for providing comprehensive psychosocial care to patients and their families in a healthcare setting. This involves assessing the emotional, social, and psychological needs of patients, providing counseling, advocating for resources, and helping individuals and families cope with the challenges that arise due to illness, injury, or medical conditions. You will work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic and coordinated care for patients.

Key Responsibilities:

Patient Assessment & Counseling:

Conduct initial and ongoing psychosocial assessments of patients to determine their emotional, social, and psychological needs.

Provide individual, family, and group counseling to help patients and families cope with the emotional impact of illness, hospitalization, and treatment.

Offer crisis intervention and counseling for patients facing sudden, severe illness or trauma.

Care Coordination & Planning:

Collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to create and implement comprehensive care plans for patients.

Coordinate patient care to ensure that all psychosocial needs are addressed as part of their treatment and recovery plan.

Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of care plans, adjusting them as necessary.

Resource & Referral Services:

Identify and connect patients and families with appropriate community resources, such as financial assistance programs, housing, counseling, home healthcare, or legal services.

Assist with the navigation of insurance, benefits, and healthcare-related paperwork to ensure access to necessary services.

Provide information on local support groups, long-term care options, and mental health services.

Crisis Intervention & Support:

Provide immediate emotional support and intervention during times of crisis, including those involving death, severe illness, or trauma.

Offer bereavement support, grief counseling, and end-of-life guidance for patients and families, as needed.

Ensure appropriate referrals for further counseling or mental health services when required.

Advocacy:

Act as an advocate for patients to ensure they receive the care and resources they need, including medical services, social services, and financial support.

Help patients understand their rights and responsibilities, and guide them in navigating the healthcare system to ensure their needs are met.

Serve as a liaison between patients, families, and the healthcare team, ensuring clear communication and addressing any concerns or barriers to care.

Documentation & Reporting:

Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of patient assessments, counseling sessions, interventions, and progress.

Prepare and submit reports regarding patient status, progress, and outcomes as required by healthcare policies and regulations.

Ensure compliance with all legal, ethical, and confidentiality standards in documenting patient information.

Education & Training:

Provide education to patients and their families about illness management, coping strategies, and available support resources.

Educate patients on healthcare benefits, insurance options, and community resources to empower them in making informed decisions.

Participate in staff training and educational sessions to remain updated on best practices in medical social work.

Required Qualifications:

Education: Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited program.

Licensure: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), or Clinical Social Worker certification (depending on state or country requirements).

Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in a healthcare setting or clinical social work. Experience in medical social work is preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

Strong communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to perform thorough psychosocial assessments and provide appropriate interventions.

Knowledge of medical terminology, healthcare services, and community resources.

Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to work under pressure and in crisis situations.

Capacity to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team, and independently as needed.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards in social work practice.

Empathy, compassion, and the ability to build trust with patients and their families.

Work Environment:

This full-time position typically works in a hospital, clinic, nursing home, home healthcare agency, or other healthcare facilities.

Shifts may include evening, weekend, or on-call hours depending on the healthcare facility's needs.

The job requires interaction with patients, families, medical professionals, and community resources in both clinical and sometimes home settings.

Additional Expectations:

Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning by attending workshops, seminars, and pursuing continuing education related to social work and healthcare.

Maintain a flexible and professional approach to work, adapting to changing needs in the healthcare setting.

Foster a compassionate and supportive environment for patients and their families, particularly during challenging times in their healthcare journey.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring the emotional and psychological well-being of patients, helping them navigate complex medical situations while providing essential support to families.