Social Worker at Waterbury Hospital – Waterbury, Connecticut

In collaboration with nurses in the Case Management practice, provide patient/family interventions to support clinical, financial, satisfaction and compliance outcomes. Pace cases from a psychosocial-economic perspective by assisting patients and families in adjustment to episodes of acute and chronic illness; in coping with lifestyle changes precipitated by illness or disability; in participating in restorative health programs; in carrying out discharge recommendations; and in addressing issues of terminality. Use a variety of modalities to assist patients and families in the alleviation or resolution of social, financial and emotional problems related to illness, health care and rehabilitation.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Perform assessment of patients/families; evaluate patient and family information; select appropriate social work methods; develop, implement and evaluate a plan in conjunction with the Case Manager and the multidisciplinary team.

• Serve as the lead in obtaining financial and other resources for patients and families in need.

· Participate in and provide pertinent information in "length of stay" meetings, discharge planning rounds, unit daily report, clinical practice team and department meetings.

• Initiate patient/family and provider meetings to develop and plan strategies related to psychosocial and economic issues, particularly those related to care progression and transition. Act as liaison between patient/families and all providers of care within and external to the organization on social issues.

• Support the placement of patients into long term care facilities. Review financial resources for long term placement and provide education to the patient/family.

• Provide support and counseling to patients/families experiencing and/or anticipating issues to adjusting to illness, catastrophic diagnoses, changes in living situations and bereavement. Establish plans. Document interventions and outcomes.

• Assist in resolving issues in the patient's environment that interfere with obtaining the maximum benefits from health care.

• Consult, assess, refer and/or coordinate interventions in cases of suspected or actual situations of child or adult abuse and neglect or other forms of domestic violence and/or sexual abuse.

• Act as lead in obtaining legal guardianship, competency determinations, and in adoption related situations. Complete and disseminate all necessary legal and clinical documentation as required.

• Conduct support groups for targeted populations.

• Performs other related duties as required.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Master's degree in Social Work
• Minimum of 2 years post master's experience in a medical setting.
• State of CT, LCSW preferred
• Excellent communication, negotiation and critical thinking skills.
• Effective interpersonal skills.
• Must have basic computer skills and ability to access internet and other programs applicable to Waterbury Hospital procedures.
• Perform automated functions that fall within job responsibility.
• Working knowledge of healthcare reimbursement.
• Ability to work in a time oriented environment including exposure to all patient elements, i.e., blood borne pathogens.