Social Worker, Mental Health

Summary

The Licensed Social Worker (LSW) ensures the experience of care for the patient and family is exceptional. The social work role is accountable for multiple performance and utilization risk components, such as (1) psychosocial assessment and clinical intervention for patients who present with a complex care need (2) short term therapeutic intervention, crisis management, and resource development that improves patient flow and transition across the continuum and supports clinical cost reduction (3) coordination of care across the continuum that is collaborative with physicians, continuity of care planners, and other interdisciplinary members of the team (4) assesses for barriers (social, financial, environmental) with potential to impact the ability to reduce unplanned procedures/visits/admissions as well as overall LOS (5) engages the patient/family, physician and team in the transition plan of care to achieve better alignment with goals, department priorities, and system quality initiatives (6) other related duties as assigned for patients across the continuum of care within the respective health care setting.

Must diligently communicate and collaborate with all members of the health care team to facilitate the episode of care, so that patient receives services in a safe and timely manner, and the patient and family are provided all necessary resources and education. Displays a high level of professionalism at all times and engages leadership in problem-solving as necessary.

Position Requirements:

• Requires Permanent LSW licensure.
• LCSW Licensure preferred.
• Requires a Master’s Degree in Social Work.
• Requires relevant health care, mental health or community-based experience.
• Requires knowledge of the impact of the disease process and of human behavior to provide psychosocial assessments; short-term therapeutic counseling; and crisis intervention to patients; families; and staff.
• Requires strong clinical assessment; planning; and goal development skills.
• Requires the ability to communicate and resolve conflict with physicians and other health care team members, community agencies, clients and families with diverse opinions, values and religious/cultural ideas.
• Requires knowledge of community resources and entitlement programs.
• Requires knowledge of state and county adult and child protective legal mandates.
• Requires knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span.
• Requires strong communication skills in giving and receiving information; providing counseling; and developing positive helping relationships with patients and families; physicians; and other members of the health team.
• Requires strong counseling skills to help patients and families understand; accept and follow medical recommendations.