What are the responsibilities and job description for the DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL SERVICES position at Minnie Hamilton Health System?
The Director of Social Services is responsible for creating a supportive environment where every person feels heard and valued. The Director works collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to develop personalized care plans that respect the unique circumstances and preferences of each individual. By coordinating resources and services, they ensure a seamless delivery of care that promotes well-being and enhances quality of life. Additionally, they play a pivotal role in advocating for policy changes and initiatives that improve social support systems and accessibility for all members of the community. Through education and outreach, the Director fosters awareness and understanding, encouraging a compassionate and inclusive society that embraces diversity and resilience. The Director of Social Services plays a crucial role in delivering professional assistance to individual residents or patients, their families, the care team, other departments, and the wider community. This position focuses on supporting individuals in navigating challenges related to aging, illness, disabilities, family dynamics, emotional, spiritual, and psychological needs, along with addressing economic and environmental influences.
Why Work for Minnie Hamilton Health Systems?
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by rural communities, MHHS is committed to improving access to quality healthcare by fostering partnerships with local organizations and participating in community outreach initiatives. These efforts aim to promote health education and encourage residents to take proactive steps toward maintaining their well-being. MHHS also places a strong emphasis on patient-centered care, ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention and treatment plans that reflect their specific needs and preferences. By integrating medical, dental, and wellness services, MHHS endeavors to create a holistic healthcare experience that supports the overall health and vitality of the community it serves.
- Maintains a positive and professional atmosphere for patients and personnel.
- Demonstrates interpersonal skills necessary in order to interact affectively with patients and personnel.
- Secures required patient/client information in order to maintain confidentiality and assure patient/client rights are protected.
- Participates in administration of policies and procedures of the organization and department to provide for fair and impartial application to all employees.
- Participation in planning, problem solving, policy development and priority setting for the hospital and is responsible for the administrative management.
- Works closely with the CEO in providing support.
The role involves coordinating information and planning services for prospective residents or patients, assisting families with care options, and managing admission paperwork. Key functions include:
- Initial inquiries and follow-ups with families and referral agencies.
- Counseling families about admissions and completing necessary paperwork.
- Conducting social assessments for new residents.
- Coordinating admissions, discharges, and transfers, ensuring smooth transitions.
- Problem-solving non-medical issues and acting as a liaison for additional services.
- Documenting all interactions and actions in patient charts.
- Providing counseling for emotional or financial issues.
- Arranging necessary equipment and out-of-facility trips for residents.
- Promoting positive public relations between the facility, residents, and families.
- Offering referrals for home health, nursing home placements, and financial assistance programs.
- Understanding legal documents like Power of Attorney and assisting with post-discharge services.
- Bachelor’s degree in social work or a bachelor’s degree in a human services field including, but not limited to, sociology, gerontology, special education, rehabilitation counseling and psychology.
- Licensed by the West Virginia Board of Social Work Examiners.
- Social Worker with current licensure to practice in the state of West Virginia.
- Must have at least two years of experience in a social work position at a health care institution working directly with individuals. Preferred experience in Long Term Care Facility.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbal and written.
- Must demonstrate ability to communicate and to use tact and diplomacy in dealing with physicians, patients, families and other health care professionals.
- Ability to work independently while being able to communicate with other employees.
- Ability to assess complex situations and develop a realistic, appropriate and safe plan.
- Must demonstrate characteristics of dependability and punctuality.
