PER DIEM SOCIAL WORKER - Pioneer Valley Hospice - GREENFIELD

The purpose of this position is to provide initial psychosocial evaluations, ongoing psychosocial counseling, direct casework services, bereavement services, and community education, outreach, and referrals. Responsible for the delivery of varied social work services to hospice patients and families, and actively participates as a member of the hospice interdisciplinary team. The per diem social worker does not manage a caseload of patients/families and receives direction regarding those who need visits or assistance.

Salary range: $38 - 40 per hour

Essential Job Functions

1. Assesses the psychosocial status of patients and families/caregivers related to the patient's terminal illness and environment and communicates findings to the registered nurse and other members of the interdisciplinary group. Provides an assessment of the patient's identified residence and assistance when this is not a safe environment, and another plan is required.
2. Carries out social evaluations, including family dynamics, caregiver abilities, communication patterns, high risks for suicide, neglect or abuse, and plans intervention based on evaluation findings. Counsels patient and family/caregivers as needed in relation to stress and other identified coping difficulties.  Provides crisis intervention when necessary.
3. Assesses for and educates the interdisciplinary group on any special needs related to the culture of the patient and family. Includes communication, role of family, space, and any special traditions or taboos.
4. Maintains clinical records on all patients referred to social work.
5. Point of Service documentation is an expectation of all clinical personnel for quality care, accuracy, and communication standards. The clinician is expected to appropriately document, have timely synchronization of patient data & effectively communicate with the Patient Care Team.
6. Educates patients and families on, and assists in, preparation of advanced directives.
7. Provides information and referral services for the organization’s patients and families/caregivers regarding practical and environmental needs.
8. Serves as liaison between patients and families/caregivers and community agencies.
9. Maintains collaborative relationships with organization personnel to support patient care.
10. Participates in the development of the plan of care, involving the patient and family, assisting the team in recognizing the effects of the psychosocial stresses on the symptoms of the terminal illness, and may attend interdisciplinary group meetings as needed.
11. Assists physician and other team members in understanding significant social and emotion­al factors related to health problems and death/dying issues.
12. Participates in discharge planning when needed. Assists patient and family/caregiver with securing durable power of attorney and with funeral arrangements, as needed.
13. Keeps supervisor informed of potentially problematic patient/family issues and significant changes in patient status.
14. Manages multiple priorities and demonstrates effective problem-solving and decision-making.
15. Assumes responsibility for personal growth and development. Maintains and improves professional knowledge and skills through continuing education and in-services.
16. Meets individual program expectations and goals as identified through performance appraisal, annual plan, and by supervisor.
17. Other duties as assigned.