Health Services Social Worker - job 1 of 2

As a Health Services Social Worker at Givens Estates in Asheville, NC, your main duties will include conducting social assessments for residents, creating tailored care plans, coordinating discharge planning, advocating for residents’ rights, overseeing the admission process, and navigating the Medicaid application process. You will also address the psychosocial needs of our skilled nursing and rehab facility residents, ensuring their well-being and comfort.

To qualify for the Health Services Social Worker position at Givens Estates, candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree with a concentration in a Human Service-related field and have at least 2 years of experience working with older adults. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, database management, strong communication skills, and the ability to work independently are also essential for success in this role.

Givens Estates offers a comprehensive benefits package for its Health Services Social Workers, which includes multiple major medical health insurance plans, free dental and vision coverage for full-time employees, paid time off with immediate access to some days, life insurance, short-term disability coverage, and a 403(b) retirement plan with up to 6% matching. Additionally, there are opportunities for educational assistance and advancement within the organization.

At Givens Estates, professional development is taken seriously. The organization provides support for educational assistance, ensuring that Health Services Social Workers have access to ongoing learning and training opportunities. This commitment not only enhances the skill set of employees but also enriches the quality of care provided to residents.

Health Services Social Workers at Givens Estates typically work Monday through Friday during regular business hours. However, the position may require some night and weekend on-call duties to support residents’ needs as they arise, ensuring that every individual receives timely and effective care whenever necessary.

In your answer, highlight specific examples of your past roles, detailing the types of services you provided, the challenges you faced, and how you supported the psychosocial needs of older adults. Discuss how your experience relates to the mission and values of Givens Estates.

Explain your systematic approach to social assessments, emphasizing skills such as active listening, empathy, and collaboration with the residents and their families. Detail how you collect relevant information to create individualized care plans that respect residents' preferences and needs.

Discuss specific strategies you have employed to ensure residents' rights are upheld, such as effective communication, documentation of concerns, and working closely with interdisciplinary teams. Stress the importance of confidentiality and sensitivity when addressing grievances.

Provide an example of a sensitive situation you encountered and explain how you approached it with compassion and professionalism. Highlight the importance of maintaining a calm demeanor and providing support while respecting the privacy and emotions of those involved.

Discuss your approach to respecting residents' autonomy while trying to engage them in dialogue. Emphasize the importance of understanding their perspective, providing information, and collaborating with them to find acceptable solutions without being confrontational.

Share the organizational systems you use to prioritize tasks, manage your time effectively, and maintain clear communication with team members. Mention any specific tools, such as software or checklists, that help you stay on top of your responsibilities.

Provide a specific instance that illustrates your ability to assess a resident's needs and implement strategies that positively impacted their quality of life. Discuss measurable outcomes and feedback you received from residents or their families to highlight your effectiveness.

Discuss the aspects of the role that you find rewarding, such as forming meaningful connections with residents, and the challenges, such as working with families during difficult times. Emphasize how these experiences drive your passion for the work.

Explain your commitment to ongoing education and staying current with industry developments. Mention any professional organizations, workshops, or certifications you pursue to enhance your knowledge and skills in the field.

Reflect on what draws you to Givens Estates specifically, such as the organization’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and its mission to enhance the lives of older adults. Share how your personal values align with those of Givens and how you hope to contribute to the community.