The Social Work Specialist works in partnership with the Medical Social Worker to assist patients and their families to achieve maximum physical, social and emotional health. Provides resource/referral information about community resources including, but not limited to; rent and utility assistance, medical insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, Food Stamps, medication assistance, access to care. Works with families to resolve transportation and lodging issues. The person in this position must be able to demonstrate very strong patient advocacy skills and follow patients through periods of intense, multiple needs.

 

This position provides support to 30+ outpatient clinics located on Marquam Hill and at the South Waterfront Center for Health and Healing.

• Advocates for patients and families, screens for abuse, suicide or medical neglect and makes appropriate referrals; screens patients’ and families’ ability to cope with major life changes; provides support to patients and families referring to Medical Social Worker as appropriate; provides family with information regarding patient care issues; works with OHSU, patients and families regarding guardianship and conservatorship issues; facilitates in the coordination of follow up care in OHSU clinics or in the community; participates in patient and family’s health care education; assists with housing and transportation needs as necessary; performs drug and alcohol screening and refers for appointment follow up.
• Maintains accurate and timely documentation of patient care activities an efficent 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. 

• A Bachelors 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.

• 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.

• 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. 

• Bilingual Spanish.

• Experience working with an electronic medical record system.  

• Requires prioritization..
• Frequent interruptions in an evironment of frequent change and fluctuations.
• For inpatient units accepts accountability and responsibility.
• May be exposed to body fluids, tissue, possible radiation exposure, and infectious processes.
• Subject to computer work for several hours, as needed.
• Able to utilize office equipment within work area.

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.