Job Description

Provides social work services to patients and families within assigned areas in order to meet identified psychosocial needs, as well as to enhance problem-solving and coping capacities and to facilitate timely discharge by arranging post-discharge services. The social worker assists with new Senior Nursing Facility (SNF) placement, addresses acute social determinants and works collaboratively with all other members of the healthcare team, ensuring clear communication and care planning to all patients.

• Investigates cases admitted with 'no insurance' or 'self-pay' to identify whether insurance coverage does exist, and if the need for financial assistance is warranted.
• Evaluates patients for abuse/neglect and makes appropriate referrals.
• Involves patient and family in discharge planning decisions.
• Keeps the director/manager informed of problematic cases, especially those involving legal or risk management issues.
• Provides assistance and advocacy to patients in obtaining financial resources and government entitlements.
• Provides social work intervention to patient/families.
• Provides support and planning in cases of death, adoption, and fetal demise.
• Responds to referrals from healthcare team members to identify available facilities and services for case specific needs during and post-hospitalization.
• Helps identify Health Care Surrogate in accordance with the Health Care Surrogacy Act when appropriate.
• Assess patients who are uninsured/under-insured for IL Medicaid eligibility and/or Carle Financial Assistance Program eligibility. If so, provide direction or assistance with completing the application(s).
• Complete PASRR assessments to assist in facilitation of discharging to extended care facilities.
• Complete mandated reports of suspected abuse and/or neglect of minors, disabled adults, and seniors. Cooperate and collaborate with the investigating bodies for safe plans.
• Find, and if possible, arrange transportation for patients to get to and from their medical appointments and/or home from the Emergency Department/Hospital.
• Educate about and connect patients with community resources to help meet their needs, e.g. non skilled help at home, meals/food, housing resources, charity assistance programs, support groups, etc.
• Provide empathic listening and emotional support to patients either in person or over the phone.

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