Job Description

Job Summary 

Serve as an active member of the treatment team for the department of psychiatry, primarily responsible for addressing all psychosocial and discharge planning needs for this population.  Consistently communicates with outside feral agencies regarding patient placement and coordinates transfer of information to next level of care provider.  Handles court proceedings for patients under petition and communicates rulings / updates to treatment team.  Provides oversight and guidance for all LBSW’s in department of psychiatry.

Essential Functions

Coordinates / ensures completion of psychosocial assessment within 72 hours of admission. Documents weekly summary of social work activities. Maintains monthly records for court petition / commitment data  Clearly communicates with patient / family, charge nurses, case manager and physician regarding status of discharge plans. Provides oversight for all LBSW’s within the department of psychiatry Demonstrates professional responsibility and accountability in collaborating with physicians and other team members to establish and achieve desired patient outcomes and promote continuity of care. Organizes and prioritizes task efficiently to meet unit needs Attends court hearings when needed, provides recommendations from physician if required, and communicates rulings back to treatment team Coordinates discharge planning with outside agency to ensure appropriate placement / follow up care is provided. Ensures appropriate documentation is present on charts for pts under court petition. Initiates appropriate assessment & discharge planning upon admission. Actively participates in treatment team meetings and provides updates related to psychosocial needs. Consistently reviews and documents revisions to the plan of care based upon patient response and / or change of status as identified by treatment team  Works closely with charge nurse & CM to meet LOS goals Reviews patient status with physician and helps determine when discharge criteria have been met. Relays appropriate information to next level of care provider. Shows good knowledge of referral /placement process and available community resources. Conducts patient / family groups as needed and documents appropriately. Participates in orientation process of new employees.

Qualifications

Qualifications

Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) or Psychology required 2-4 years of experience in a healthcare or clinical social work setting preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of psychosocial assessment techniques, clinical social work principles, and healthcare discharge planning. Strong understanding of community resources, social service systems, and care coordination best practices. Excellent communication, counseling, and conflict resolution skills. Ability to manage emotionally complex situations with professionalism and empathy. Strong organizational and documentation skills with attention to regulatory requirements. Ability to collaborate with diverse teams and work in a fast-paced healthcare environment. Familiarity with electronic medical records and case documentation systems.

Licenses and Certifications

LMSW - Licensed Medical Social Worker - State Licensure required BCLS - Basic Life Support obtained within 7 days of employment required