Social Services Director

The Social Services Director is responsible for overseeing the social services department in a healthcare, long-term care, or assisted living facility. This role ensures that residents receive comprehensive psychosocial support, helping them and their families navigate the emotional, social, and practical aspects of healthcare. The Social Services Director develops and implements care plans, leads discharge planning, and coordinates community resources, all while advocating for residents' rights and well-being. The director also manages the social services team and collaborates with the interdisciplinary care team to ensure holistic care for residents.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Supervision:

  • Manage and oversee the social services department, providing leadership, guidance, and support to social services staff.
  • Develop and implement policies and procedures that promote the emotional and social well-being of residents.
  • Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and ensure ongoing training and development for social services staff.
  • Collaborate with the facilitys leadership team to ensure that social services align with the facilitys overall goals and mission.

• Resident Care and Advocacy:

  • Assess the psychosocial, emotional, and practical needs of residents and develop individualized care plans to address these needs.
  • Provide counseling and emotional support to residents and their families, helping them navigate the challenges of aging, illness, and long-term care.
  • Advocate for residents' rights, ensuring their dignity, autonomy, and preferences are respected.
  • Serve as a resource for residents and families, addressing concerns related to care, communication, and living conditions.

• Discharge Planning:

  • Lead the discharge planning process for residents transitioning to other care settings or returning home, ensuring a smooth and safe transition.
  • Collaborate with the interdisciplinary care team, families, and external agencies to coordinate discharge plans, including home care services, medical equipment, and community resources.
  • Ensure all discharge plans are compliant with facility policies and regulatory requirements.

• Community Resources and Referrals:

  • Identify and connect residents and families with community resources, such as financial assistance, housing, legal services, and counseling.
  • Maintain a strong network of community partners and organizations to support the ongoing needs of residents.
  • Ensure that residents and their families are aware of available services and how to access them.

• Regulatory Compliance and Documentation:

  • Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations related to social services, including HIPAA and residents rights regulations.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of all social services activities, assessments, and care plans in the electronic health record (EHR) system.
  • Participate in audits, inspections, and surveys, ensuring that the social services department meets all regulatory standards.

• Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Teamwork:

  • Collaborate with physicians, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that residents receive holistic care.
  • Participate in interdisciplinary care team meetings, care conferences, and quality improvement initiatives.
  • Act as a liaison between residents, families, and the care team to facilitate communication and resolve any issues related to care.

• Family and Resident Education:

  • Provide education and guidance to residents and their families on topics such as advance directives, living wills, and healthcare decision-making.
  • Offer support and resources to families coping with end-of-life issues, bereavement, or other emotional challenges.

• Quality Assurance and Improvement:

  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of social services programs, making adjustments as needed to improve resident outcomes and satisfaction.
  • Participate in facility-wide quality assurance initiatives aimed at improving resident care and services.

• Education: Bachelors degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field is preferred. A Masters degree in Social Work (MSW) or a related field is highly preferred.
• Licensure: Active and valid licensure as a Social Worker may be required.
• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in social services, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role in a healthcare or long-term care setting.
• Skills:
  • Strong leadership and team management abilities.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a compassionate and patient-centered approach.
  • In-depth knowledge of social services regulations, healthcare laws, and residents rights.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with an interdisciplinary care team.
  • Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) systems and documentation.
  • Knowledge of community resources and social services available to seniors and individuals with disabilities.

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