Social Worker MSW, Dialysis Unit

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES- The social worker will assist the patient/family in achieving successful adjustment to the physical, financial, and psychosocial constraints of ESRD by providing appropriate and timely services and referrals.

• Completion of Comprehensive Assessments and Care Planning with all patients initially, at 90 days, and annually (monthly for unstable patients).
• Patient education in a format appropriate to their education physical and communication needs.
• Patient Rights and responsibilities, Grievance Procedure and Patient Agreement will be reviewed, and a written handout will be given.
• Individual and/or family counseling as needed.
• Available support services and education regarding community resources will be provided as indicated.
• Transient dialysis will be arranged by patient request.
• Complete Advanced Care planning with patients as requested.
• Work to complete PHQ-9 and KDQOL with all patients at a minimum annually.
• The social worker will assist with new patient intake and required documentation.
• The social worker will assist with completion of necessary documentation for CMS ESRD reporting.
• The social worker will complete sections of QAPI as assigned to them and attend QAPI meetings.
• Performs home visits to patient's dwelling. Investigates case situations and presents information to members of the health team on patient's family and social background pertinent to diagnosis and treatment.
• Assess patients for continuing care needs, create a plan for providing continuing care, and confers with physician and team members as needed.
• Refers patient or patient's family to other community resources as is indicated; assists patients and families to complete advance directives.
• Educates patients about resources, options, and documents all activities in a timely manner.
• The MSW provide emotional support, helps patients and families understand and accept their condition as well as accepting medical recommendations; utilizes community resources to assist patients to live in the community; responsible for travel arrangements for patients; responsible for arranging changes in levels of care and settings.
• The MSW participates in team meetings regularly to provide input during patient case conferences and to educate team members regarding social work interventions that can be provided.
• May be required to work flexible hours.

CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following behavior expectations:

Quality - Follows policies and procedures; adapts to and manages changes in the environment; Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness giving attention to details; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Manages time and prioritizes effectively to achieve organizational goals.

Service - Responds promptly to requests for service and assistance; Follows the Mercyhealth Critical Moments of service; Meets commitments; Abides by MH confidentiality and security agreement; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; and effectively communicates information to partners; Thinks system wide regarding processes and functions.

Partnering - Shows commitment to the Mission of Mercyhealth and Culture of Excellence through all words and actions; Exhibits objectivity and openness to other's views; Demonstrates a high level of participation and engagement in day-to-day work; Gives and welcomes feedback; Generates suggestions for improving work: Embraces teamwork, supports and encourages positive change while giving value to individuals.

Cost - Conserves organization resources; Understands fiscal responsibility; Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Masters of Social Work (MSW) in the State of Illinois and/or Wisconsin

Dialysis, home health, or hospice experience desired

One year social work experience in a healthcare setting

Experience and ability to facilitate groups

CERTIFICATION/LICENSURE

Currently Licensed (LCSW/LSW) in the State of Illinois and/or Wisconsin

Licensed to practice in the State of Wisconsin and/or Illinois or registry eligible

Maintain a valid driver's license and reliable transportation with proof of vehicle insurance when requested

Have and maintain an acceptable driving record per Mercyhealth HR-01 Fleet Safety policy

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Passing the Driver's License Check and/or Credit Check (for those positions requiring).

Passing the WI Caregiver Background Check and/or IL Health Care Workers Background Check.

Must be able to follow written/oral instructions.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Occupational Exposure: Category A - All partners in the specified job classification have occupational exposure.

AGE OF PATIENTS SERVED

Adult (18 years - 64 years)

Geriatric (65 years and older)

INFORMATION ACCESS

Partner may access patient care information needed to perform their job duties.

WORK CONTACT GROUP

Partners, physicians, patients/family, visitors, vendors

SPECIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The Special Physical Demands are considered Essential Job Functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

Climb stairs and light lifting. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.

LEVEL OF SUPERVISION

Independent judgement is required. General procedures and regulations are available to guide work.

SUPERVISES

May supervise LCSW interns as indicated.