Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) - Remote Hospice Care Specialist

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 Social Services team in a remote capacity. In this full-time position, you will be instrumental in assessing, planning, and delivering comprehensive social work services to patients and their families at our Hospice Center. Your expertise will not only enhance the patient experience but also contribute to multidisciplinary care coordination, ensuring that our patients receive the support they need during challenging times.

About the Organization\n

Keck Medical Center of USC, located in Pomona, California, is part of the prestigious University of Southern California's healthcare system. We are committed to providing holistic and patient-centered care that aligns with our values of innovation, quality, and respect. Our Hospice Center is designed to support patients facing life-limiting illnesses, ensuring that both they and their families receive comprehensive services tailored to their unique needs.

Work Environment\n

This role offers a remote work setting, allowing you to support patients and families from the comfort of your own environment while maintaining crucial connections with our interdisciplinary team through virtual collaboration. You will be joining a committed group of healthcare professionals who embody compassion and dedication, working collectively to uphold high standards of care in hospice settings.

Key Responsibilities\n

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• Psychosocial Assessments: Conduct thorough and timely psychosocial assessments to identify the needs, strengths, and resources of patients and families. Utilize theoretical frameworks of human behavior and psychosocial factors to inform treatment planning.
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• Clinical Interventions: Engage in supportive counseling for patients and families, providing linkage to community services and facilitating family conferences. Assist families in navigating difficult decisions such as hospice care and Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders, ensuring their concerns are effectively communicated to healthcare providers.
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• Case Management: Manage a diverse clinical caseload, demonstrating proficiency in triage and prioritization of high-risk situations. Collaborate with case managers and healthcare staff on discharge planning and ongoing care coordination.
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• Documentation: Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with hospital policies, including progress notes and interdisciplinary care plans, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
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• Quality Improvement: Engage actively in quality improvement initiatives to monitor and enhance the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions and overall patient care outcomes.
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• Supervision: Provide supervision and mentorship to graduate students and newly licensed social workers, fostering professional development within the social work community.
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• In-Service Training: Conduct training sessions for hospital staff on psychosocial issues impacting patient care, contributing to an informed and supportive care environment.
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• Special Projects: Participate in special programs, such as Cancer Awareness Month activities and educational workshops for patients and families, to broaden the reach of social services.
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Patient Population / Client Focus\n

Your role will focus on serving patients with terminal illnesses and their families, providing essential emotional and psychosocial support during one of the most challenging times in their lives. Tailoring interventions to meet the specific needs of cancer patients and their loved ones, you will help them cope with emotional distress, decision-making, and grief. You will affirm our commitment to culturally sensitive care, addressing unique values and practices that honor each individual’s experience.

Qualifications\n

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• A Master's degree in Social Work from an accredited graduate program.
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• Two years of experience in a medical or hospice setting, with a focus on oncology preferred.
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• Possession of a valid California Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) certification.
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• Proven ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
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• Demonstrated competency in customer service, problem-solving, analytical skills, and teamwork.
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Preferred Experience\n

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• Experience working with cancer patients and understanding of oncological care pathways.
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• Familiarity with community resources and support services for terminally ill patients.
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• Previous supervisory experience in the field of social work.
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Compensation and Benefits\n

The annual salary for this position ranges from $120,000 to $130,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition to competitive pay, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

Career Growth Opportunities\n

At Keck Medical Center, we prioritize the growth and development of our employees. As an LCSW, you will have the opportunity to enhance your clinical skills through ongoing training and certifications. Your involvement in quality improvement initiatives and supervision of students will also provide pathways for you to expand your professional leadership roles within the organization.

Why Join Our Team\n

Joining our social services team means becoming part of a community that values respect, compassion, and excellence in patient care. We are dedicated to supporting you as a professional and providing the resources necessary to deliver outstanding service to our patients and families. You will play a pivotal role in a collaborative environment, making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

Application Information\n

If you are passionate about social work and desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients and families facing terminal illness, we invite you to apply for this rewarding opportunity. Please submit your resume, cover letter, and relevant credentials through our website. Our team looks forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can contribute to our mission of compassionate care.