Social Worker Assistant

Social Worker

The Social Worker is responsible for evaluating the mental, emotional and physical status of patients, while managing care coordination needs in developing and executing the discharge plan. The Social Worker is responsible for creating a discharge plan based on an initial assessment, with ongoing reassessments with modifications as required. Communicating with doctors, nurses, home health companies and other healthcare personnel and agencies.

Required Skills/Qualifications/Training/Experience:

• Strong understanding of managed care
• Commitment to ensuring cost effective management of resources while achieving positive clinical outcomes
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate patient's discharge needs, and develop plans accordingly
• Self-starter with excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to problem solve and prioritize
• Excellent communication skills and positive interpersonal dynamic in working with a variety of stakeholders across the care continuum
• Sound clinical judgment and approach to coordinating care, with understanding of various medical conditions and terminology
• Ability to function independently within scope of position and licensure, as well as department policies and established goals
• Ability to successfully discuss sensitive clinical and financial issues with patients and families while providing guidance in placement and referral issues
• Demonstrated initiative in proactively identifying legal or risk management issues presenting barriers to successful transitions of care, and developing plan to address
• Understanding of federal, state and local healthcare standards and regulations
• Proficiency in computer applications, such as Microsoft Office

Preferred Skills/Qualifications/Training/Experience:

• Experience with Cerner preferred
• 3-5 years of experience in an acute care hospital setting preferred
• Certification in Case Management preferred

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work required, Master's Degree preferred

License/Certification:

• Current Massachusetts license as LSW, LCSW, preferably LICSW or LICSW eligible.

Age Specific Criteria:

• Ability to effectively communicate to all age levels served within the scope of the position/assigned areas.

Ability to Meet Job Performance Expectations:

• Must have the ability to perform the essential functions of the position without posing a direct threat to the health and safety of themselves or other individuals in the workplace, with or without a reasonable accommodation.