Job Summary

This position involves the supervision of the Social Work staff in helping residents with social, emotional and related difficulties associated with their medical condition and adjustment to nursing home placement. The Social Work Director is responsible for the oversight and direction of all activities and staff of the Social Work Department. Administrative direction is received from the Administrator with leeway allowed for exercise of independent judgment. The Director is expected to be familiar with available community services and make referrals as appropriate for the residents and responsible parties. All state and federal regulations must be abided by and the Director shall provide direction to the Social Work staff to assure that such regulations are followed.

Requirements

• Graduation from a regionally accredited or NYS registered college or university with a Master’s Degree in Social Work or Health Care Administration with two years of social case work experience

Duties and Responsibilities

Except as specifically noted, the following functions are considered essential to this position:

• Responsible for a caseload of residents maintaining the highest practicable physical, mental and psychosocial well being of each resident
• Supervises the provision of social work services to residents to assist in their adjustment to their illnesses, disabilities and placement
• Counsels residents and families regarding adjustment to the nursing home and related problems
• Provides in-service training to staff when indicated
• Schedules, supervises and evaluates the work of the Social Work and clerical staff in the department
• Recommends and initiates policies and procedures following the approval of the Administrator
• Responsible for hiring and discharging staff under immediate supervision with approval of the Administrator
• Develops and ensures adherence to the policies regarding the rights and responsibilities of the residents
• Coordinates and supervises Social Work staff involvement in interdisciplinary conferences to review care plans and ensure a concise care plan is in effect
• Participates in interdisciplinary team morning meetings, department head meetings, care planning and any other meetings that are deemed necessary for social work input
• Conduct weekly Social Work staff meetings, at least quarterly family council meetings and any other group activities that may be implemented by the Social Work staff
• Other duties as assigned

Performance Knowledge, Skills and Characteristics

• Thorough knowledge of the practices and procedures of social case work and of the social factors related to disease and disability
• Good working knowledge of the techniques of case recording and applying modern principles and practices of social case work to the duties of the position
• Knowledge of Medicare, Medicaid and NYS Health Department regulations and community services
• Skilled in interviewing techniques
• Ability to establish and maintain successful relationships with other departments and to deal diplomatically with residents, families staff and the public
• Ability to organize work effectively
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Ability to supervise others and to direct the work of others
• Ability to prepare clear and accurate records and reports
• Sensitivity to the reaction of others
• Good powers of observation, analysis and tact
• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position