GENERAL SUMMARY: The Medical Social Worker provides essential psychosocial support to pediatric patients and their families in a specialized clinic setting. This role encompasses hematology, oncology, sickle cell, hemophilia, and infusion care. The social worker is responsible for conducting comprehensive assessments, offering emotional support, and connecting families to resources to navigate the complexities of chronic and acute illnesses. This position also ensures compliance with organizational policies, regulatory requirements, and standards set by the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) and Hemophilia Foundation. Complies with all appropriate safety and infection control standards. Participates in quality assessment and continuous quality improvement activities. Performs all job duties and responsibilities in a courteous and customer-focused manner according to the Hurley Family Standards of Behavior.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Works under the direction of a director/manager or designee who reviews work for conformance with Medical Center policies and procedures.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from a college or university accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
• Current licensure as a Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Michigan.
• Certification in Oncology Social Work (OSW-C) (Master's level) preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Knowledge of social work practices, principles of public welfare, community organization and social welfare administration.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records and reports.
• Ability to walk short distances, and to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious relationships with physicians, patients, community support agencies, Medical Center staff, and the general public.
• Primarily clinic-based, with direct patient and family interaction.
• Exposure to emotionally challenging situations related to chronic illness and pediatric care.
• Flexibility to adapt to patient needs and clinic scheduling requirements.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

• Licensed as a Social Worker through the State of Michigan within 3 months of hire.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

1. Works in close collaboration with physicians and other health care personnel in patient evaluation and treatment to further understanding of significant social and emotional factors underlying patient health problems including interviewing patients and providing background summaries.
2. Conduct initial and ongoing assessments to identify the psychosocial, emotional, and financial needs of patients and families.
3. Provides counseling to patients and family through individual or group conferences to assist them in resolving psychosocial reactions to hospitalization, illness, and/or crises.
4. Provide counseling and emotional support to families dealing with chronic illnesses, complex diagnoses, and treatment challenges.
5. Educate patients and families about their diagnoses, treatment options, and resources for managing care.
6. Organize and facilitate support groups for families to share experiences and foster peer connections.
7. Provide training and guidance to staff on psychosocial considerations in pediatric specialty care.
8. Help families develop coping mechanisms and strategies for managing their child’s care.
9. Serve as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare teams, advocating for patient needs and ensuring access to appropriate care.
10. Facilitate communication and care planning among multidisciplinary teams, including physicians, nurses, and other specialists.
11. Coordinate referrals to community organizations, support groups, and financial assistance programs.
12. Assist families in accessing financial aid, transportation, housing, and other necessary resources.
13. Partner with local and national organizations, including the Hemophilia Foundation, to ensure families receive needed support.
14. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of community resources and services for pediatric patients with chronic and acute conditions.
15. Adhere to hospital policies, ethical guidelines, and standards of care established by COG and the Hemophilia Foundation.
16. Maintain accurate and timely documentation in compliance with organizational and regulatory standards.
17. Participate in audits, quality improvement initiatives, and compliance reviews as required.
18. Assists patients and family in discharge planning for home or other alternative living situations.
19. Demonstrates effective judgment and ability to understand, react effectively and treat (if appropriate) unique needs of patient age groups served.
20. Performs other duties as required. Utilizes new improvements and/or technologies that relate to job assignment.