Licensed Master Social Worker

Essential FunctionsBe available to welcome new residents, provide support, and initiate a trusting relationship.Enter an initial assessment note in the Social Services section of the chart within 72 hours of admission. Complete assigned sections of the MDS, complete and enter the Social History within fourteen (14) days of admission and re-evaluate the resident on a quarterly basis (or sooner when a significant change occurs). These assessments are used to contribute to the resident care plan.Contribute as an integral member of the interdisciplinary Resident Care Plan Conference. This includes identifying the social and emotional needs related to the resident's illness/disability, adjustment to placement, supportive network, and response to treatment. The Social Worker makes specific recommendations to assist in the resident's overall care and well-being.Coordinate weekly care plan meetings and notify residents, family members, and IDT members.Write progress notes at admission and quarterly thereafter, or sooner when there is a notable change. Each note should document progress made toward social service-oriented goals, provide significant information about the resident, and communicate effectively with the interdisciplinary team.Initiate and/or participate in the written discharge plan, which states the resident's specific need to remain in the facility and whether the resident is expected to function in a more independent setting. The discharge plan should include consultation with other disciplines, the family, and the resident whenever possible.Participate in the post-discharge plan as needed or assigned.Provide active listening and emotional support to residents who express the need to speak with a supportive individual. Establish rapport with residents and provide behavioral intervention and counseling as appropriate.Attend Resident Council meetings as a liaison to listen to resident concerns, clarify issues, and facilitate changes when invited by the Resident Council governing body. The Social Worker should also work collaboratively with the Activities Department and assist with Resident Council meetings as needed.Contact community agencies for resident referrals. These agencies may include, but are not limited to:Department of Mental Health and Developmental DisabilitiesDepartment of Public AidVeterans AdministrationCommunity mental health centersTransportation providersSocial clubs and community organizationsAssist residents in participating in individual and group programs and utilizing those programs to their fullest advantage.Educate residents and families regarding advance directives and assist with their completion.Be available to assist residents with social issues in Assisted Living and Independent Living settings.Serve as a resident advocate and liaison between residents, families, the facility, and community agencies.Provide family education and support services as required.Meet with nursing consultants as needed or assigned and assist in planning and implementing additional programs, such as family nights, open houses, and joint programs with the Activities Department.Promote resident rights, including:Self-determinationTreatment with respect and dignityThe right to voice grievancesThe right to meet with other residentsAssist in planning, implementing, and organizing the development of Family Councils and Family Support Groups as needed.Provide Quality Assurance services through formal and informal QA studies, audits, and monitoring activities.Provide emotional support and adjustment counseling as an adjunct service to existing programs, with the supervisor's guidance and approval.Implement, monitor, and coordinate behavioral health meetings monthly with the interdisciplinary team and at least quarterly with physician involvement.Maintain the work area and ensure departmental compliance with OSHA safety standards.Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.Demonstrate the community's hospitality promises toward residents, families, associates, and vendors.Maintain on-call availability during time away from work, including after-hours, days off, critical operating situations, and disaster emergencies such as snow, ice storms, fires, tornadoes, floods, or other emergencies as needed by the CEO.Serve as the primary Grievance Official in the Health Center. Duties include:a. Overseeing the grievance process.b. Receiving and tracking grievances through resolution.c. Leading facility investigations when necessary.d. Maintaining confidentiality of all grievance-related information, including resident identities.e. Preventing further violations while investigations are ongoing.f. Maintaining appropriate documentation.g. Ensuring compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations.Qualifications Must be able to read, write and follow written and verbal directions.Demonstrates skills and ability in working with and understanding the needs of theresidents, families, other staff members and personnel from community agencies.The ability to present concise, meaningful written reports and articulate the social/psychological needs of the residents.The ability to accept and utilize professional supervision, consultation and in-service training.The ability to handle confidential data with professional discretion.Experience in long term care setting.