The Social Work Specialist works in partnership with the Oncology Social Worker to assist patients and families in achieving maximum physical, social, and emotional wellness. Provides resource/referral information including but not limited to: community resources, housing/lodging, medical insurance, financial assistance, transportation, and basic support group/counselor information.  Works with patients and families to complete pertinent applications for assistance and refers patient to services/organizations as appropriate within OHSU and the larger community. The SWS may also assist with assessment of patient needs and will coordinate with the Oncology Social Worker regarding plan of care and clinical social work support needs. The person in this position must be able to demonstrate strong patient advocacy skills and follow patients through the course of their treatment.

 

This position supports the Solid Tumor Social Work team at the Center for Health and Healing Building 2.

Key Responsibilities & Performance Standards

• Advocates for patients and families, screens for needs/concerns and makes appropriate referrals; screens patients’ and families’ ability to cope with major life changes; provides support to patients and families referring to Oncology Social Worker as appropriate; provides patient/family with information regarding patient care issues, facilitates in the coordination of follow up care in OHSU clinics or in the community;  assists with housing and transportation needs as necessary. Works in partnership with SWS team and oncology SW.
• Maintains accurate and timely documentation of patient care activities an efficient manner per departmental policies. Complete all OHSU/Joint Commission mandatory education requirements and activities within established time lines.  Yearly competencies as identified by department.
• Participates in department meetings; participates in workshops, seminars and training sessions to maintain professional competency; assists in staff education; visits community facilities, programs or services to acquire pertinent resource information.

• Two years of social service work experience providing supportive counseling to clients on a one-to-one basis which includes full responsibility for handling each case plan;  AND
• A Bachelor’s degree, or three more years of experience which shows: a) knowledge of casework methods and techniques; b) knowledge of patient’s family’s rights; c) knowledge of medical terminology; and d)knowledge of implications of the effect of illness, injury and/or disability on patients and families.

• Intermediate level skills in Microsoft Word.  Demonstrated ability to work with a variety of diverse customers in difficult situations.  Skill in developing and maintaining professional relationships.  Ability to prioritize work demands.  Ability to interpret and follow policies and procedures. 
• Experience working with oncology patients

• Experience working with an electronic medical record system. 

• Bilingual preferred

• Routine office
• Requires travel between multiple clinic sites, reliable transportation preferred.
• Requires prioritizing of multiple demands from numerous social workers.
• Frequent interruptions in an environment of frequent change and fluctuations.
• Telecommuniting available.

Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.