Hospice Social Worker

Job Title: Hospice Social Worker

Reports to: Director of Clinical Support Services

Department: Support Services

Minnesota Hospice is a locally owned and operated community hospice proudly serving patients and families throughout Dakota, Scott and Rice counties. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming and supportive environment where team members feel valued and empowered to thrive.

Our leadership team is deeply invested in the growth and success of every employee. We foster professional development through ongoing educational opportunities, specialized trainings, and meaningful teambuilding activities. At Minnesota Hospice, you’ll find not just a workplace, but a community dedicated to compassionate care to patients and one another.

Job Summary:

The Social Worker is responsible for advancing the mission of Minnesota Hospice by delivering compassionate, patient- and family-centered clinical support as part of the interdisciplinary care team. This role provides specialized assessment and intervention related to psychosocial, spiritual, bereavement, environmental, and financial needs, ensuring patients and their families receive comprehensive support throughout the hospice journey. The Social Worker collaborates closely with team members, facilitates care planning, advocates for patient goals, and connects families with community resources to promote dignity, comfort, and quality of life.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Provide psychosocial care to patients and families in accordance with Medicare Conditions of Participation.
• Complete comprehensive psychosocial assessments within five (5) days of admission.
• Develop, implement, and update the Plan of Care (POC) at least every fifteen (15) calendar days.
• Provide counseling, emotional support, and crisis intervention within the Social Worker scope of practice.
• Advocate for patients and families to maximize psychosocial well-being and access to supportive services.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with interdisciplinary team members to implement and coordinate the Plan of Care.
• Participate in bi-weekly Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) meetings to address psychosocial goals and needs.
• Facilitate family conferences as appropriate to support care planning and goal alignment.
• Complete financial disclosure documentation and provide financial counseling and advocacy as indicated.
• Assist patients and families with Advance Directives, including living wills and POLST forms.
• Facilitate Medicaid applications and support access to other benefit programs.
• Maintain timely, accurate, and confidential documentation in compliance with Medicare regulations and agency standards.
• Coordinate discharge planning with facilities and address concerns or grievances collaboratively.
• Support funeral planning and end-of-life arrangements as requested.
• Serve as a liaison with community resources, religious and spiritual institutions, and external partners to support holistic care.
• Maintain knowledge of local community resources and act as a resource to the hospice team.
• Support and collaborate with caregiving volunteers.
• Maintain an appropriate caseload based on scheduled work hours.
• Provide bereavement support and counseling to designated primary bereaved individuals as needed.
• Participate in agency-sponsored education, staff meetings, and events.
• Present hospice education to community groups upon request.
• Deliver services in compliance with agency policies and the NASW Code of Ethics.
• Maintain collaborative relationships with community partners and referral sources to support care coordination and continuity of services for patients and families served by Minnesota Hospice.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of appropriate HIPAA and confidentiality
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proven ability to handle confidential information with minimal supervision
• Ability to function independently
• Able to work as both a part of a team and independently
• Possess great organizational skills
• Strong decision making and problem solving skills
• Excellent time management and prioritization skills
• Proficient in word processing and computer skills in addition to the use of automated equipment and software

Education and Experience:

• LSW required, MSW with LGSW or LICSW preferred
• Current licensure through the MN Board of Social Work
• Minimum of 1 year related experience in healthcare setting
• One year hospice or long term care experience preferred

Physical Requirements:

• Able to regularly lift and move up to 20lbs
• May have prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Personal protective equipment provided, including masks

Company Expectations:

• Adhere to all Minnesota Hospice policies and procedures
• Valid driver’s license and auto insurance
• Promote teamwork
• Lead by example
• Conduct yourself in a positive, confident and professional manner
• Communicate clearly, concisely and accurately
• Promote the hospice concept within the communities we serve
• Offer a willingness to participate in Minnesota Hospice team building events, community events, staff meetings, and agency events

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employer. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be altered at any time with or without notice.

Interested in this Position?

Email your resume using the email link below, be sure to indicate which position you are applying.