Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Hospice Care (Remote)

Job Description

Position Overview\n

The Keck Medical Center of USC is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to join our dynamic team in providing pivotal social services to patients and their families within our hospice center. This full-time remote position plays a critical role in delivering psychosocial assessments, treatment planning, and interventions tailored to our patients’ complex needs. As an LCSW, you will not only guide patients and families through challenging healthcare decisions but will also support junior staff and students, enhancing the overall quality of care provided.

About the Organization\n

Keck Medical Center of USC is a renowned healthcare institution, part of the University of Southern California. Our commitment to excellence in patient care and innovative treatments is matched by our dedication to a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture. We strive to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that meets the diverse needs of our communities in Salinas, California, and beyond. Our hospice center specifically focuses on providing dignified end-of-life care, ensuring that patients and their families receive the support they need during vulnerable times.

Work Environment\n

This is a remote position based within the hospice center, offering flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance. As a socially responsible organization, we employ cutting-edge tools and practices that foster effective virtual communication among our interdisciplinary team, ensuring seamless collaboration regardless of physical location. Staff members regularly participate in team-oriented initiatives designed to enhance the learning environment, including virtual case discussions, workshops, and training sessions.

Key Responsibilities\n

\n
• Psychosocial Assessment: Conduct timely assessments utilizing a solid theoretical background in human behavior and psychosocial dynamics, while addressing any legal or ethical considerations.
\n
• Clinical Intervention: Provide supportive counseling to patients and families, link them to relevant community resources, facilitate family meetings around difficult discussions such as hospice placement and advance directives, and collaborate with case managers for comprehensive discharge planning.
\n
• Triage and Caseload Management: Effectively identify high-risk situations and manage your clinical caseload by balancing new referrals and ongoing care requirements, engaging with colleagues for support when necessary.
\n
• Legal and Ethical Compliance: Uphold all legal and ethical standards in clinical assessments, including responding to suspected cases of abuse or neglect and respecting patient confidentiality.
\n
• Documentation: Complete required paperwork as dictated by policy, including progress notes and care directives, contributing to the multidisciplinary understanding of patient needs.
\n
• Staff Education: Share insights and knowledge regarding psychosocial issues impacting patient care through in-service training sessions like Lunch and Learns.
\n
• Quality Improvement: Engage in initiatives that develop and monitor metrics for improving patient care, working toward enhancing the overall quality of service provided.
\n
• Community Engagement: Participate in planning and executing activities such as Social Work Month events and educational programs aimed at supporting patients and their families.
\n
• Additional Duties: Contribute to other tasks as required, including the facilitation of support groups and outreach efforts.
\n

Patient Population / Client Focus\n

The primary clientele for this role are patients receiving hospice care, often dealing with terminal conditions and complex emotional challenges. Our social worker proactively addresses the psychosocial needs of elderly patients, cancer patients, and individuals facing life-limiting illnesses, ensuring they and their families feel supported and informed throughout their healthcare journey.

Qualifications\n

\n
• Mandatory possess a Master's degree in Social Work from an accredited graduate school.
\n
• Two years of experience in a medical setting, with at least one year in a cancer-focused environment preferred.
\n
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to deliver exceptional customer service.
\n
• Proficient analytical and problem-solving skills, with the capacity to navigate complex interpersonal situations.
\n
• Ability to function independently and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
\n

Preferred Experience\n

\n
• Experience providing social services in a hospice or palliative care context.
\n
• Proficiency in working with diverse populations and understanding culturally sensitive care options.
\n

Compensation and Benefits\n

The annual base salary for this role ranges between USD 120,000 and 130,000 , commensurate with experience and qualifications. Keck Medical Center of USC offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, paid time off, and continuing education support.

Career Growth Opportunities\n

Employees at Keck Medical Center have access to numerous professional development opportunities including workshops, mentoring programs, and funding support for additional certifications relevant to hospice and social work. The organization encourages advancement and cultivates a culture of learning and expertise.

Why Join Our Team\n

By joining the Keck Medical Center team, you become part of a mission-driven organization focused on excellence in patient care and community service. Our supportive environment values employee well-being, promotes innovative thinking, and rewards dedication to patient outcomes. If you are passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients in need, we invite you to apply.

Application Information\n

If you are ready to make a meaningful impact as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker within our hospice team, please submit your application, including your resume and cover letter, through our careers page. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!