MSW

The information described in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature of the work performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Other information:

Job Summary
This MSW position supports the Hospice of the Northwest patients. The MSW provides social work services to patients as a part of the interdisciplinary care team. Addresses the needs and concerns of the patient in planning care, developing resources to meet patient needs. Participates in the development and implementation of appropriate measures of patient care quality and satisfaction. May facilitate support groups and provide patient/family/staff education and in-service activities. Assesses for pre-death grief and bereavement needs of the patient. The information described in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature of the work performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Skagit Regional Health offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, 457b/401a (retirement), long term disability, and paid time off to all employees holding an FTE of 20 or more hours per week. Eligible employees also receive sick time pay.

Essential Functions
Performs comprehensive assessments with patients. Provide crisis intervention and counseling to reduce emotional, financial or interpersonal stressors. Provides patient crisis intervention and counseling to reduce emotional, financial or interpersonal stressors. Assesses for abuse/neglect, exploitation or abandonment and follows mandatory reporting guidelines. Assesses for suicide risks, chemical dependency and other behavioral health needs. Makes referrals to appropriate services. Encourages patient to express and document their end of life care values and assists with facilitation/education of advanced directives. Links patients with community resources based on needs, age appropriateness, cultural relevancy and eligibility criteria. Participates in interdisciplinary care conferences for care planning and goal clarification. Suggests ethics committee and/or risk management consultation if ethical/legal dilemmas arise. Complies with all SRH and Hospice of the Northwest departmental Policies and Procedures.

Education
Master of Social Work (MSW) degree required from an accredited program.

Experience/Training
Minimum one (1) year of professional paid social work experience or graduate practicum placement in an applicable healthcare setting required. Experience in hospice strongly preferred.

License/Certifications
Current Washington State Social Work licensure required or an Agency Affiliated Counselor application must be submitted to WA State DOH within the first thirty (30) days of employment. LICSW preferred. Current Washington State Driver's License and proof of automobile liability insurance required.

Other Skills
Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills required. Ability to practice collaboratively. Must be able to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment characterized by frequent interruptions and competing priorities. Proven ability to intervene across a broad range of family, group and individual dynamics. Demonstrated knowledge of and commitment to social work values and adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics and Standards of Cultural Competence in Social Work. Knowledge of health care regulations, laws, ethics and policies related to applicable healthcare setting. Knowledge of needs assessment, resource identification, acquisition and community resources. Experience in methods application, casework, supervision and training.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, climbing and driving all day. The employee must frequently lift or move objects and patients weighing over 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to focus. This position requires working in a variety of communities and patient homes for which there is little control over environmental conditions.Skagit Regional Health offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, 457b/401a (retirement), long term disability, and paid time off to all employees holding an FTE of 20 or more hours per week. Eligible employees also receive sick time pay.