About the position
Royal Hospice is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Medical Social Worker (MSW) to join our team in Portland, OR. This part-time position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about providing care to terminally-ill patients and their families. As a family-owned hospice agency, we prioritize respect for our team members and their personal choices, fostering a supportive work environment. The Medical Social Worker will play a crucial role in delivering medical social services under the direction of a physician, utilizing their advanced education and clinical expertise to address the unique needs of patients and families in a hospice setting. In this role, the Medical Social Worker will conduct ongoing assessments to evaluate the evolving emotional, spiritual, and physical needs of patients and their families. They will develop and implement a comprehensive Plan of Care that reflects the bio-psychosocial needs of the patient and family, taking into account their spiritual, cultural, and religious beliefs. The Medical Social Worker will provide a range of interventions, including education, support, individual and family counseling, and linkage to community resources. They will also offer bereavement support and community outreach services, ensuring that families receive the necessary support during this challenging time. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, resilience, and the ability to handle the emotional and physical demands of working in a hospice environment. Adherence to company policies, procedures, and regulatory compliance is essential, as is the ability to maintain confidentiality and respect for patient privacy. This position requires a commitment to the company's mission, vision, and values, and the ability to work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team to provide high-quality care to our patients and their families.
Responsibilities
- Conduct initial bio-psychosocial assessments focusing on the dynamic needs of patients, families, and caregivers.
- Develop and implement a Plan of Care addressing the bio-psychosocial needs of patients and families.
- Assess and treat pain from a psychosocial perspective, involving ongoing assessment and discussion of pain management.
- Identify psychopathology and behavioral issues within the patient and family system, providing counseling and education as needed.
- Assist patients and families with DNR, Advanced Directives, and other personal or legal directives.
- Provide ongoing education and support regarding end-of-life issues, death, dying, and bereavement.
- Assist families/caregivers in patient placement or transfer to facilities for basic care needs, providing case management and discharge planning.
- Complete and maintain all patient records in EMR, submitting accurate clinical documentation.
- Participate in Interdisciplinary Group meetings, staff meetings, and in-services, contributing to quality outcome measurements.
- Educate and maintain a safe environment for patients.
- Participate in evening/weekend call as required, conducting on-call services professionally.
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws, Medicare regulations, and established policies.
- Adhere to HIPAA privacy programs and maintain confidentiality of patient information.
Requirements
- Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited program.
- Experience in hospice or palliative care settings preferred.
- Strong communication skills and ability to provide compassionate care.
- Knowledge of bio-psychosocial assessment and intervention techniques.
- Ability to work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience with bereavement support and counseling.
- Familiarity with community resources and services for terminally-ill patients.
- Skills in discharge planning and case management.
Benefits
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
