Guardian Hospice·Sherman, Texas
The Social Worker is responsible for implementing standards of care for medical social work services, focusing on psychosocial assessments for terminally ill patients and their families. They coordinate with an interdisciplinary team to develop individualized care plans and provide crisis intervention and referral services.
Job Title/Position: Social Worker
Reports To: Master of Social Work
Job Description: Summary
The social worker contracted or employed through the organization is responsible for the implementation of standards of care for medical social work services and for adherence to all conditions in the Service or Employment Agreement.
1. Assesses the psychosocial status of patients and families/caregivers related to the patient's terminal illness and environment and communicates findings to the registered nurse and other members of the interdisciplinary group. Provides an assessment in the patient's identified residence and assistance when this is not safe and another plan is required.
2. Carries out social evaluations, including family dynamics, caregiver abilities, communication patterns, high-risks for suicide, neglect or abuse and plans intervention based on evaluation findings. Counsels patient and family/caregivers as needed in relationship to stress, and other identified coping difficulties. Provides crisis intervention when necessary.
3. Assesses for, and educates interdisciplinary group, on any special needs related to the culture of the patient and family. Includes communication, role of family, space, and any special traditions or taboos.
4. Maintains clinical records on all patients referred to social work.
5. Educates patients and families on, and assists in, preparation of advanced directives.
6. Provides information and referral services for organization patients and families/caregivers regarding practical and environmental needs.
7. Provides information to patients and families/caregivers and community agencies.
8. Serves as liaison between patients and families/caregivers and community agencies.
9. Maintains collaborative relationships with organization personnel to support patient care.
10. Maintains and develops contracts with public and private agencies as resources for patient and personnel.
11. Participates in the development of the individualized plan of care, involving the patient and family, and attends regularly scheduled interdisciplinary group meetings, assisting the team in recognizing the effects of the psychosocial stresses on the symptoms of the terminal illness.
12. Assists physician and other team members in understanding significant social and emotional factors related to health problems and death/dying issues.
13. Actively participates in quality assessment performance improvement teams and activities.
14. Assists family and patient in planning for funeral arrangements, financial, legal, and health care decision responsibilities.
15. Other duties as delegated by the Clinical Supervisor.
The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job related tasks other than those stated in this description.
1. A graduate of a master’s program in social work (MSW) accredited by the Council on Social Work Education
2. A graduate of a bachelor’s program in social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Meets personnel qualifications stated in §418.114(b)(3).
3. Minimum of one (1) years’ experience in health care, hospice experience preferred. Understands hospice philosophy, and issues of death/dying.
4. Experience in a hospice care preferred.
5. Demonstrates good verbal and written communication, and organization skills.
6. Possesses and maintains current CPR Certification.
7. Must be a licensed driver with an automobile that is insured in accordance with state or organization requirements and is in good working order.
The employer for this position is stated in the job posting. The Pennant Group, Inc. is a holding company of independent operating subsidiaries that provide healthcare services through home health and hospice agencies and senior living communities located throughout the US. Each of these businesses is operated by a separate, independent operating subsidiary that has its own management, employees and assets. More information about The Pennant Group, Inc. is available at http://www.pennantgroup.com.
Candidates must hold a BSW or MSW from a CSWE-accredited program and have at least one year of healthcare experience, preferably in hospice. A valid driver's license, insured vehicle, and current CPR certification are also required.
Market context
Texas BSW social work roles in hospice and healthcare are often competitive because employers look for candidates with a CSWE-accredited BSW or MSW, prior healthcare experience, and current CPR and driving credentials. These positions can be appealing for applicants who want patient-facing work with care coordination responsibilities. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then confirm your hospice experience and licensure, vehicle, and CPR details before applying.
