Social Worker - MSW

PURPOSE AND SCOPE:

Provides psychosocial services to patients treated by the facility including in-center and home dialysis patients (if applicable) utilizing Social Work Theory of Human Behavior and accepted methods of social work practice. Works with the healthcare team to promote positive adjustment, rehabilitation, and improved quality of life for patients. In collaboration with the interdisciplinary team, educates and supports staff in understanding the emotional, psychological, and behavioral impact of Chronic Kidney Disease on the patient and family to ensure comprehensive quality care. Supports quality indicators and outcomes, actively participates in process improvement activities.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Patient Assessment / Care Planning / Counseling

• Assesses patients' psychosocial status, strengths, and areas of need affecting rehabilitation and treatment outcomes.
• Participates in care planning with the patient and healthcare team to identify effective interventions.
• Utilizes patient education programs, social work theory, and quality of life measurement instruments in assessments.
• Provides monitoring and interventions for optimal psychosocial status and quality of life.
• Provides supportive counseling services as permitted within clinical training and state license.
• Assesses patient awareness of advance directives and facilitates discussions if necessary.

Quality

• Provides psychosocial support to address non-adherence, quality outcome, and quality of life concerns.
• Participates in monthly quality review meetings with the interdisciplinary team.

Patient Education

• Assesses patient knowledge of kidney disease and provides tailored education.
• Facilitates the transplant referral process and manages transplant waitlist collaboratively.
• Reviews patient rights and responsibilities to ensure understanding.

Patient Admission and Continuity of Care

• Reviews patient information handouts and addresses immediate needs/concerns.
• Supports the clinic in scheduling to maximize adherence and adjustment.

Insurance and Financial Assistance

• Collaborates with Insurance Coordinators to address insurance-related issues.
• Provides information about payment to dialysis and collaborates on changes impacting insurance.

Staff Related

• Assists with hiring processes and maintains updated patient resource lists.
• Provides training to staff on psychosocial topics as needed.

• Adheres to work-defined caseload guidelines based on state regulatory requirements.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Travel required (if multiple facilities or home visits, if applicable).

SUPERVISION:

• LCSW supervision available.

EDUCATION AND REQUIRED CREDENTIALS:

• Masters in Social Work.
• Must have state-required license.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

• 0 – 2 years of related experience.