Director of Social Work Nursing Home

Schervier Rehabilitation & Nursing Center -

Job Title : Director of Social Work – Nursing Home

Position Summary : The Director of Social Work in a nursing home is responsible for leading and overseeing all social work services within the facility. This includes managing a team of social workers, providing clinical supervision, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and advocating for residents’ rights and needs. The Director will work collaboratively with healthcare professionals, families, and community partners to deliver comprehensive, person-centered care for residents, ensuring their emotional, psychological, and social needs are met.

Key Responsibilities :

Leadership and Staff Management :

Lead and supervise a team of social workers, ensuring they are providing high-quality services to residents and their families.

Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing mentorship and professional development for social work staff.

Develop and implement department policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure effective social work interventions.

Promote a collaborative work environment and serve as a resource to other team members.

Resident Care and Support :

Oversee the assessment of residents’ social, emotional, and psychological needs upon admission and throughout their stay.

Ensure that individualized care plans are developed in collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, addressing residents’ social, emotional, and environmental needs.

Provide crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and emotional support to residents and their families as needed.

Clinical Supervision :

Provide clinical supervision to social work staff, ensuring adherence to professional ethical standards and clinical best practices.

Monitor case management activities, ensuring effective coordination of services and the provision of personalized care.

Review and approve case documentation and progress notes in compliance with regulatory requirements.

Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance :

Ensure that social work services comply with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as industry best practices and ethical guidelines.

Participate in the facility’s quality assurance processes and assist in preparing for regulatory inspections or audits.

Ensure the timely and accurate completion of required documentation, including care plans, assessments, and discharge summaries.

Advocacy and Family Support :

Advocate for residents’ rights, ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect throughout their care.

Provide support and counseling to families, guiding them through difficult decisions and end-of-life issues.

Facilitate family meetings, resident councils, and other group forums to promote resident and family engagement.

Training and Professional Development :

Oversee the ongoing training and professional development of social work staff, including workshops, seminars, and relevant certifications.

Stay informed on the latest trends and best practices in social work, geriatric care, and long-term care settings.

Ensure social work staff maintain licensure and certification requirements as mandated by state and federal regulations.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration :

Work closely with nursing, medical, and therapy staff to ensure a holistic approach to resident care.

Participate in interdisciplinary care planning meetings, contributing social work insights to optimize care delivery.

Address concerns related to discharge planning, including family counseling and referrals to community resources.

Program Development and Community Resources :

Develop and enhance social services programs that support residents' well-being, including recreational, support, and counseling services.

Cultivate relationships with local community organizations and resources to enhance resident services, including assistance with placement, financial support, and transportation.

Budget and Resource Management :

Oversee the social work department budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.

Identify and pursue external funding opportunities and grants to enhance social work services for residents.

Qualifications :

Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited program.

Active state licensure as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, LMSW, or equivalent).

Minimum of 2 years of social work experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role in a healthcare or long-term care setting.

Strong knowledge of social work ethics, patient rights, and regulatory standards for nursing homes.

Experience in geriatrics, long-term care, or working with elderly populations is preferred.

Ability to work in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment and manage multiple priorities.

Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications :

Experience in a nursing home or skilled nursing facility setting.

Knowledge of long-term care regulations and compliance requirements, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines.

Experience with care planning and case management in long-term care.

Certification in Social Work Administration or related advanced certifications.