Medical Social Worker

Takara Hospice; Escondido (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

Takara Hospice, based in Escondido, is looking for a compassionate Medical Social Worker to enhance the quality of life for patients in need. This part-time role is essential for providing support and care during critical times.

The ideal candidate must hold a Master’s degree in Social Work and a valid state license. Responsibilities include assessing patient needs, coordinating care with an interdisciplinary team, and providing crisis intervention.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of experience in health care, preferably in a hospice or home care setting.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with other disciplines.
• Knowledge of community resources and ability to navigate electronic medical records.

Responsibilities

• Assess psychosocial status of patients and families related to terminal illness.
• Conduct assessments at patient residences and develop alternate plans as needed.
• Maintain clinical records on all patients referred to social work.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Problem-solving skills

Coping with emotional stress

Attention to detail

Advocacy skills

Organizational skills

Education

Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW)

Current state license as a Social Worker

Job description

Job Posting

Takara Hospice, a committed pioneer in providing exceptional end-of-life care, is currently looking for a compassionate and skilled Medical Social Worker to join our team.

This part‑time position plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of care our patients receive during their most critical times. The role is not eligible for remote work and requires the candidate’s presence onsite.

Responsibilities

• Assess the psychosocial status of patients and families/caregivers related to the patient’s terminal illness and environment, and communicate findings to the registered nurse and other members of the interdisciplinary group.
• Conduct assessments at the patient’s identified residence and provide assistance when this is not safe, developing an alternate plan as required.
• Carry out social evaluations, including family dynamics, caregiver abilities, communication patterns, and high risks for suicide, neglect, or abuse, and plan interventions based on evaluation findings.
• Counsel patients and families/caregivers as needed regarding stress and other identified coping difficulties.
• Provide crisis intervention when necessary.
• Assess and educate the interdisciplinary group on any special needs related to the culture of the patient and family, covering communication, role of family, space, and specific traditions or taboos.
• Maintain clinical records on all patients referred to social work.
• Educate patients and families on, and assist with, the preparation of advanced directives.
• Provide information and referral services for patients and families/caregivers regarding practical and environmental needs, and connect them with community agencies.
• Serve as liaison between patients, families/caregivers, and community agencies.
• Maintain collaborative relationships with organization personnel to support patient care.
• Maintain and develop contracts with public and private agencies as resources for patient and personnel.
• Participate in the development of the individualized plan of care, involving the patient and family, and attend regularly scheduled interdisciplinary group meetings to support the team in recognizing psychosocial stresses.
• Assist physicians and other team members in understanding significant social and emotional factors related to health problems and dying issues.
• Actively participate in quality assessment, performance improvement teams, and activities.
• Assist families and patients in planning for funeral arrangements, financial, legal, and health care decision responsibilities.
• Perform any other duties delegated by the Clinical Supervisor.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
• Current state license as a Social Worker.
• Minimum of two years of experience in health care, preferably in a hospice, hospital, or home care setting.
• Demonstrated ability to cope with family emotional stress and tolerance of individual lifestyles.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with other disciplines.
• Knowledge of and ability to obtain community resources (information and referral).
• Ability to work independently, maintain confidentiality of information, and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Advocacy skills and ability to provide holistic care with respect to cultural, ethnic, spiritual, socioeconomic, and sexual diversity.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to navigate electronic medical records and basic office software proficiency.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have access to a reliable vehicle for home visits.

Location: North County, Escondido, Temecula, Fallbrook, Murrieta, Vista, San Marcos, Encinitas, La Jolla, Carlsbad.