Social Work Assistant

The Social Work Assistant (SWA), also known as a Social Service Assistant, provides crucial support to licensed social workers and others in the Care Management Department. This role is essential in helping clients access vital support and services, such as housing, food, healthcare, and other community resources. The SWA assists in determining client program eligibility, guides individuals through the completion of paperwork and forms, conducts interviews to collect and verify necessary information, and coordinates with community resources as directed. The SWA assists with Health Care Directives and managing referrals. Additionally, the position involves supporting case management, maintaining documentation, ensuring proper record-keeping to facilitate efficient operations and care coordination, and provides administrative support as needed.

• POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience :

Associate's degree in social work, human services, or a related field.

• Previous experience in social services, healthcare, or community-based support experience preferred.
• Experience in customer service, care management, or community outreach is a preferred.
• Two years of clerical experience and / or experience working with the public, OR two years of clerical experience in a social service or health care facility, OR two years of experience as a Community Service Aide or similar role.
• License / Certificates :

N / A

• Special Skills and Aptitudes :

Must possess strong written and verbal communication and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to accurately and rapidly process detailed information.
• Ability to respond to written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Effective interpersonal relationship skills including good listening and communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information discreetly and appropriately.
• Ability to develop and implement plans for program / department operations.
• Ability to adapt resources to meet the needs of the situation.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple assignments within workload.
• Ability to function independently and take independent action within the scope of job responsibilities
• High level of competency in personal computer skills including the Microsoft Office Suite and internet use.
• Ability to deal with change and ambiguity.
• Knowledge of available community resources.
• ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Patient Support and Advocacy :

Assist patients in accessing necessary social services, such as housing, transportation, food assistance, healthcare, financial aid, and coordinating other community resources.

• Conduct intake interviews to gather relevant patient information and direct them to appropriate resources.
• Explain care management community resources, and community programs to individuals or groups, and assist in completing applications.
• Effectively identify and escalate issues that need social work or nursing support.
• 2. Care Management Assistance :

Support licensed social workers or case managers in tracking patient progress and ensuring follow-up on referrals.

• Maintain accurate documentation and help monitor the delivery of services to patients.
• Assist in preparing reports and summaries on patient progress for case reviews and team meetings.
• 3. Documentation and Record-Keeping :

Document patient interactions, services provided, and updates to ongoing cases, ensuring compliance with confidentiality policies.

• Maintain both electronic and paper records (as appropriate), ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and up-to-date information.
• Review case records to ensure completion of required forms and accurate documentation.
• 4. Referral and Resource Coordination :

Provide information on community resources such as shelters, food banks, job training, and mental health services.

• Assist patients in navigating community resources and government programs (e.g., Medicaid, public assistance) and make referrals to other necessary services.
• Coordinate services between multiple agencies to ensure comprehensive patient support.
• Make appropriate referrals to the financial advisors and / or other resources when needed.
• 5. Administrative and Clerical Support;

Perform administrative tasks, including answering phones, scheduling appointments, and organizing materials for clients.

• Support social work staff with clerical functions and meeting or community event support.
• Assist with managing social work caseloads and prioritizing tasks for efficiency.
• 6. Team Collaboration and Communication :

Work collaboratively with social workers, care managers, and other professionals to ensure holistic and compassionate patient care.

• Contribute to team meetings, providing insights regarding patient needs and progress.
• Maintain positive, professional relationships with patients, colleagues, and external partners.
• 7. Training and Development :

Participate in ongoing training sessions to stay informed about updates in laws, policies, and community resources.

• Stay informed about new programs and resources to enhance patient support and service delivery.
• Complete all required education in timely manner.

Demonstrate Standards of Excellence when other duties are assigned.

The estimated starting pay range for this role is $25.13 to $27.22. Actual pay rate offered depends on many factors including each individual employee's experience level, preferred education / certifications, along with market conditions.

Benefits

Flexible schedule

Competitive wages

Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance options

HSA option

401k contribution

Paid Time Off

Location : Cuyuna Regional Medical Center

• Hospital Care Management

Schedule : Full Time, Professional

Salary : $25 - $27