Psychiatric Social Worker I

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP

The Psychiatric Social Worker I will report to the Manager-Mental Health Services.

SPECIFIC ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Performs related work according to the principles, values, ethics, and standards of Social Work practice as required by the approved Authority.
• Interviews and counsels individual patients and members of their families and provides ongoing assessment, including gathering comprehensive information to use in developing intervention and treatment strategies for patient care and adjustment to diagnosis.
• Assesses patients' living conditions, family dynamics, and needs through home visits to aid in developing intervention and treatment strategies.
• Prepares case histories and written reports in a timely manner and confers with the supervisor on work problems and case reports.
• Maintains appropriate records/documentation of Social Work services reflecting pertinent information for assessment and treatment.
• Implements intervention and treatment plans that promote clients' well-being and ensure a continuum of care.
• Interprets to medical staff the social, economic, environmental, and personal factors of a case related to the medical care and rehabilitation of the patient.
• Provides case management collaboration among healthcare team, family members, and care systems to address patients’ biomedical and psychosocial needs.
• Advocates for the needs of disenfranchised or vulnerable populations, identifies barriers to services, and seeks resolution in consultation and with approval.
• Acts as educator for clients, families, communities, and professionals regarding disease prevention, illness impact, advocacy, health maintenance, and treatment adherence.
• Prepares and submits Medical Aid Applications to the Ministry of Health for procedures not available in the public healthcare system.
• Refers clients/patients to social and insurance agencies for rehabilitation, benefits, allowances, or grants.
• Assists in discharge planning and residential placement as requested or in the best interest of the patient, guided by legislation.
• Maintains proper data collection for analysis and research activities and produces monthly statistical reports.
• Attends and participates in ward conferences.
• Performs other related duties as required by the appropriate Authority.

KEY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the principles, practices, theories, and techniques of psychiatric social work.
• Knowledge of current social, economic, and health problems and resources, with emphasis on environmental factors affecting mental health.
• Knowledge of the mental health laws of the country.
• Knowledge of individual and group behavior, especially behavior patterns of the mentally ill.
• Ability to make clear and pertinent statements, orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with patients, associates, and the public.

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with Internship/Practicum experience in Psychiatric Social Work.
• Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in the field.
• Registration with the Medical & Psychiatric Social Workers Board of Trinidad and Tobago.
• Any other combination of training and experience.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Health Information Clerk I.

COMMUNICATION AND WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

Internal:

• All Clinical and Nursing Personnel
• Community Liaison Department
• Members of the Mental Health Team

External:

• Ministry of Health
• Other Regional Health Authorities