Description

The social worker is responsible for the implementation of standards of care for medical social work services. Under supportive supervision from the Licensed Clinical Social Worker, the Social Worker provides direct service to patients and their families where illness, medical care, and treatment are complicated by social and emotional problems.

Core Competencies

Adheres to the National Association of Social Workers’ (NASW) Code of Ethics and Joint Commission requirements.   Adheres to the California Board of Behavioral Sciences requirements.   Assesses for abuse/neglect, complies with mandatory reporting laws; and serves as a liaison with responsible agencies. Logs all reports made into Departmental Abuse Log books.   Assesses the psychosocial status of patients related to the patient's illness and environment and communicates findings to case manger and clinical manager.   Assists with complex discharge planning in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Team to develop a safe, realistic, and timely discharge plan. Assists with patient care conference and attends patient care conferences as needed.   Assists physicians and other team members in understanding patients significant social and emotional factors related to health problems.   Attain/maintain CCS (California Children's Services) Paneling, if requested. Assesses all patients under the age of 21 for CCS eligibility and submits application/SAR (Service Authorization Request) as indicated.   Attends and participates in interdisciplinary rounds on assigned unit, as indicated.   Attends and participates in hospital committee meetings, departmental staff meetings, and shared decision making councils as requested.   Collaborates with case managers/interdisciplinary team to provide patients and families with the most appropriate treatment plan, intervention and resources.   Participates in the development of the plan of care and case conferences.   Obtains continuing education to promote self-growth, to maintain clinical competency, and to meet current licensure and certification requirements.   Provides education and assistance with Advance Directives to patients, families, staff and community members as needed.   Provides information and referral services for patients and families/caregivers and coordinates community resources regarding practical and environmental needs.   Remains flexible with schedule to meet departmental staffing needs. Assists with standby, weekends and holidays as needed.   Seeks clinical consultation from Licensed Clinical Social Work team and Social Services Manager as appropriate.   Maintains and submits monthly Social Services Work Activity Sheet.