Medical Social Worker at Eastern Connecticut Health Network

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Medical Social Worker provides clinical social work services for patients throughout the acute care hospital setting. Primary responsibility is for the inpatient units with the exception of Behavioral Health. This position will also cover the social work needs of the Family Birth Center patients when referred. Outpatient referrals will be honored whenever possible.Provides support and counseling to patients and families who are dealing with serious health care concerns, educates them about their rights and responsibilities and assists in decisions about health care options and advance directives.Serves as an interface with community service agencies for adoptions, reporting of elder or child abuse, probate court actions and financial assistance.In partnership with the Care Manager, is responsible for arranging the transition of patients to extended care facilities, rehabilitation hospitals or other specialized facilities.Uses independent clinical judgment and works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team.Communicates, as appropriate, the patient’s clinical condition and care needs.Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and the skills necessary to provide age appropriate care to the patient population served.Professional knowledge and judgment will be utilized when guidelines are unavailable or inappropriate for a given situation.Promotes the profession of social work and professional practice through collegial support and interactions.Is primarily assigned to one hospital, but will be required to provide coverage at the other hospital as needed.Reports to the Manager of Care Management.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

• Minimum of a Master’s Degree in Social Work or a related field.


• State of Connecticut License in Clinical Social Work preferred. LPC will be considered in lieu of LCSW.

EXPERIENCE:

• A least two (2) years related experience, preferably in a medical setting.

COMPETENCIES:

• Good analytical, organizational and interpersonal skills.


• The ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing is critical.


• Must be able to work collaboratively with other members of the health care team.


• Possesses basic computer skills.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITES: