Job Description: Social Service Director

POSITION PURPOSE:

Responsible for planning, developing, organizing, implementing, evaluating, and directing the Social Service Department in accordance with federal, state, and local standards, as well as established policies and procedure to ensure that the medically related emotional and social needs of the patients/residents are met and maintained on an individual basis.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF POSITION:

• Plans and direct a comprehensive social services program which provides support services for residents and families.
• Responsible for coordinating all admissions and discharges to ensure facility census is kept at its maximum capacity.
• Participates in an interdisciplinary team approach to better serve the needs of the facility population.
• Provides therapeutic intervention to help residents cope with the social and psychological aspects of illnesses, impairments, or disabilities, as well as their feelings about separation from family/community, physical, and emotional loss.
• Maintains written documentation in the customer medical record per facility policy and state and federal guidelines.
• Performs an initial evaluation/assessment of each residents biopsychosocial needs to be placed in the medical record. Active cases require ongoing documentation.
• Develops social service component of the residents plan of care identifying specific problems, goals, and approaches. Ensures and documents that residents/families have input into the care planning process.
• Acts as a liaison/advocate between residents, families, outside agencies, and the Administrator to ensure that the residents rights are maintained.
• Takes responsibility for conducting family group meetings as needed (new admissions group, support group, family and friends council, etc.)
• Performs administrative requirements such as completing necessary forms and reports under the direction of the Administrator and submitting such reports to the Administrator and/or consultants as required.
• Facilitates discharge planning including the development of an organized discharge plan.
• Participates in departmental budget planning and supplies monthly report to the Administrator.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Education/requirements:

• Preferred experience is a minimum of two years experience in a supervisory capacity in a long-term care; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must possess any certification/licensure required by state and federal regulations.
• Must have a minimal of two years' experience with social work in long term care facilities or hospitals.