Social services Assistant

We are looking for a Social services assistant to be part of our team. The primary purpose of this position is to assist in implementing, evaluating and participating in the overall operation of the social services department in accordance with current federal, state and local standards and regulations.Duties and ResponsibilitiesAdministrative FunctionsImplement the social services programs of this facility under the direction of the Administrator and the Director of Social Services.Participate in the facility assessment and assess individual social services needs and resources. Assist in obtaining resources from community social, health and welfare agencies to meet the needs of the resident. Coordinate social services activities with other members of the interdisciplinary team (IDT). Assist residents, representatives and families with seeking financial assistance, discharge planning (including collaboration with community agencies) and referrals to other community agencies. Ensure that each resident receives necessary behavioral health care and services to obtain and maintain the highest practical physical, mental and psychosocial well-being in accordance with the comprehensive assessment and plan of care. Participate in resident/group council meetings as requested. Provide residents with information concerning resident rights, living wills, etc. Keep abreast of current federal and state regulations as well as professional standards and make recommendations on changes in facility policies and procedures to the Director of Social Services or the Administrator. Coordinate resources and assist residents who have limited English proficiency (LEP) including the provision of verbal and written translation of information. Maintain a reference library of written material, laws, standards of practice, etc., necessary for complying with current standards and regulations that will provide assistance in maintaining quality social services. Meet with administration, medical and nursing staff as well as other related departments in planning social services programs and activities. Participate in facility surveys (inspections) made by authorized government agencies as necessary or as directed. Care Plan and Assessment FunctionsParticipate in the development of a resident-centered care plan for each resident. Involve the resident/family in planning individualized objectives and goals for the resident. Communicate the social, psychological and emotional needs of the resident/family to other members of the IDT. Complete and sign social services components of the Minimum Data Set (MDS), Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) or cognitive assessment. Collaborate with the IDT prioritizing non-pharmacological interventions for resident behaviors in accordance with facility policies and best practices. Admission, Transfer and Discharge FunctionsEnsure that the discharge needs of each resident are identified and result in the development of a discharge plan for each resident. Coordinate transfers or discharges for residents. Manage the transfer or discharge process when a resident has appealed. Assist residents who are being transferred to another facility or who are being discharged; assist residents and their resident representatives in selecting a post-discharge care provider. Refer residents/families to appropriate social services agencies when the facility does not provide the services or needs of the resident. Personnel FunctionsAssist in standardizing the methods in which social services tasks will be performed. Staff Development FunctionsAttend and participate in continuing education programs to maintain current licensure. Equipment and Supply FunctionsFollow established procedures governing the use of labels and safety data sheets (SDSs). Maintain a clean and sanitary work area. Follow established infection prevention and control procedures when indicated. Participate in all Life Safety Code and emergency preparedness and response drills. Report all occupational injuries and illnesses to the supervisor in charge. Budget and Planning FunctionsConduct social services programs and activities within the established department budget. ExperienceMust have, as a minimum, one (1) year supervised social work experience in a health care setting working directly with individuals.