Oncology Social Worker

Position: Oncology Social Worker

Location: Mountain Home

Reports to: Executive Director of Highlands Foundation

FLSA Status: Contract Employee/ Hourly

Overview

The Oncology Social Worker provides compassionate, comprehensive psychosocial support to patients and families affected by cancer. This role addresses emotional, social, financial, and practical needs; facilitates access to community and healthcare resources; supports advance care planning; and collaborates with a multidisciplinary oncology team to promote patient-centered, whole-person care and improved quality of life.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Psychosocial Assessment & Counseling

· Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments to identify patient and family needs, strengths, coping mechanisms, and barriers to care.

· Provide individual, family, and group counseling to support patients through diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and end-of-life care.

· Offer crisis intervention and emotional support during periods of distress, significant medical changes, or complex care transitions.

Community Resources & Patient Education

· Educate patients and families on available community resources and how to access them.

· Provide clear guidance regarding service eligibility, including education that patients residing in a Skilled Nursing Facility (skilled bed) with Medicare insurance cannot receive or be billed for oncology social work services.

· Promote early and proactive communication to prevent confusion, service delays, or unmet expectations.

Advance Care Planning & Long-Term Care Education

· Provide information to patients and families about advance care planning, including living wills and Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders.

· Provide education and referrals related to long-term care options, including nursing homes, hospice, and palliative care services.

· Connect patients with resources for financial planning, funeral and burial/plot planning, and other long-term needs.

Nutrition, Transportation & Housing Support

· Coordinate nutrition and meal support services, including Meals on Wheels, senior centers, and community meal programs.

· Assist patients in arranging in-home support services such as housekeeping and meal preparation.

· Help patients access transportation services for medical appointments and housing assistance or temporary housing resources when needed.

Discharge Planning & Home Care Coordination

· Collaborate with clinical teams to ensure safe and effective discharge planning.

· Ensure patients have education appropriate supplies, and equipment prior to including:

· PICC line care coordination and patient instruction

· PEG tube care, feeding supplies, and feeding education

· Advocate to prevent patient discharge without adequate home care plans, supplies, or instructions.

Insurance, Benefits & Resource Navigation

· Will work in coordination with the business office by assisting patients and families with insurance-related questions and navigation, including Medicaid enrollment and coverage options.

· Provide support with disability applications and referrals to social services.

· Educate patients and families on insurance coverage limitations, eligibility requirements, and next steps to obtain needed services and resources.

Care Coordination & Advocacy

· Serve as an ongoing point of support, connection, and advocacy for patients and families.

· Collaborate closely with other providers involved in the patient’s care. Promote coordinated, patient-centered care across disciplines to support optimal outcomes.

Documentation & Professional Practice

· Maintain accurate, timely documentation of Social Work services and interventions in compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.

· Stay informed of current best practices, community resources, and programs related to oncology, palliative care, and psychosocial support.

QUALIFICATIONS

· Master’s degree in social work (MSW) from an accredited program.

· Current Social Work licensure (LSW, LCSW, or equivalent) in the state of Arkansas.

· Minimum of two (2) years of clinical social work experience, preferably in oncology or healthcare settings.

· Knowledge of psychosocial aspects of cancer care, palliative care, and end-of-life issues.

· Strong assessment, counseling, crisis intervention, and care coordination skills.

· Excellent interpersonal, communication, and teamwork abilities.

· Ability to work sensitively with diverse populations while maintaining confidentiality.

· Familiarity with community resources, insurance processes, and financial assistance programs.

Skills & Competencies

· Compassionate, patient-centered approach

· Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment

· Strong advocacy and problem-solving skills

· Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse populations

Work Environment

· Outpatient oncology clinic and/or hospital-based oncology practice

· Direct patient contact with occasional exposure to emotionally challenging situations

Physical Requirements

· Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods

· Ability to communicate effectively with patients, family members, and staff

**For more information about Oncology Supportive Services. Please visit ossnwa.com**

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Family leave
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $70,000