Social Worker (Masters w/ License)

As a Licensed Medical Social Worker (LMSW) at Sanctuary Hospice, your main responsibilities will include assessing the psychosocial status of patients and communicating your findings with the RN Case Manager and interdisciplinary team. You'll evaluate medical needs, home situations, and community support to create personalized care plans. Counseling patients and their families to support their emotional well-being is also a key aspect of your role, ensuring that they navigate challenging times with compassion and understanding.

To apply for the Licensed Medical Social Worker (LMSW) position at Sanctuary Hospice, candidates need to possess a Masters of Social Work from an accredited institution and maintain a current and unencumbered social work license in the state of Ohio. Additionally, candidates should have at least a year of experience in social work, preferably in long-term care or medical settings, with hospice experience being a valuable plus.

Sanctuary Hospice offers an exceptional compensation package to Licensed Medical Social Workers, including comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance. Additional benefits encompass a generous PTO package, a 401(k) with company matching, tuition reimbursement, and wellness programs designed to support professional and personal growth. The organization prides itself on ensuring its team members lead balanced lives, providing reimbursements for cell phone, mileage, and gym memberships.

The work schedule for a Licensed Medical Social Worker at Sanctuary Hospice is typically Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. This full-time position allows you to engage with patients and families during meaningful hours, providing essential support during the weekdays.

Sanctuary Hospice actively supports the professional growth of Licensed Medical Social Workers through tuition reimbursement programs, certification assistance, and a hands-on clinical onboarding experience. These initiatives are designed to help you develop your skills and advance your career within the caring environment of our organization.

When approaching counseling with families facing end-of-life situations, it's important to create a safe and open environment for communication. Be empathetic and patient, showing genuine care for their feelings. Listening actively and validating their emotions will help them feel supported. Sharing coping strategies and resources for additional support can also provide them with valuable tools during this difficult time.

I have gained experience in developing and implementing care plans by working closely with interdisciplinary teams to assess the unique needs of patients. I prioritize understanding each patient’s psychological, social, and medical backgrounds, which allows me to tailor care plans that reflect their preferences and strengthen their support systems.

One particularly challenging situation involved working with a family that was in denial about the patient's condition. I addressed it by fostering trust through open communication, allowing them to express their fears and concerns. By guiding them through the emotional complexities and providing resources for emotional support, we were able to reach a mutual understanding regarding the patient’s care.

Effective time management is key in social work. I use prioritization techniques to assess which patients require immediate attention and which cases can accommodate a longer timeline. Utilizing organizational tools and maintaining clear documentation also help to ensure that I am responsive and attentive to every patient’s needs without compromising care.

Volunteers play an invaluable role in hospice care by providing companionship, assistance, and respite for families. They often bring diverse talents and unique perspectives that enrich the patient care experience. As a social worker, I consider educating and involving volunteers essential in creating a supportive atmosphere for both patients and their families.

Handling sensitive conversations about death and dying requires considerable empathy and respect. It's vital to approach these discussions with care, ensuring that families feel comfortable opening up. I often use open-ended questions and allow them to guide the conversation about their feelings and concerns. This approach not only helps normalize their emotions but also fosters a supportive dialogue.

To assess the psychosocial needs of patients, I use a multifaceted approach that includes direct interviews, observations, and validated assessment tools. Engaging with family members also provides insights that are critical in forming a comprehensive understanding of the patient's needs. Additionally, I pay close attention to any social determinants of health that may impact their wellness.

Effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams requires clear communication and mutual respect. I prioritize regular attendance at team meetings and ensure that I actively contribute my insights while valuing the expertise of colleagues in other disciplines. By maintaining open lines of communication, we can collectively create cohesive care strategies that benefit our patients.

The most rewarding aspect of being a Licensed Medical Social Worker is the opportunity to make a profound impact in the lives of others during their most vulnerable times. Supporting patients and their families through their journey significantly enriches my work, especially when I witness the positive changes that arise from compassion and understanding.

Staying current with best practices in hospice and palliative care involves a commitment to ongoing education. I regularly attend professional workshops, webinars, and conferences, and I actively engage with peer-reviewed journals and resources. Additionally, building a network with fellow professionals provides further learning opportunities and insights into innovative practices.