Health Care Social Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the rapidly evolving world of healthcare, the significance of health care social workers is increasingly evident.

As healthcare landscapes transform, the demand for compassionate, skilled professionals who can navigate, enhance and protect our health care system becomes more pronounced.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a health care social worker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of health care social work,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable health care social worker job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Health Care Social Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Health Care Social Workers play a critical role in healthcare settings, offering support to patients and their families during difficult times.

They help patients understand their diagnosis, discuss emotions and feelings, provide counseling and support, and connect patients with necessary resources and services.

As Health Care Social Workers, their duties and responsibilities may include:

• Evaluating the psychosocial needs of patients and family members
• Providing emotional support and counseling to patients and their families
• Assisting patients and their families in understanding and making decisions about medical care and treatment options
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans
• Identifying resources and services available to patients, such as financial assistance, housing, and community programs
• Helping patients navigate the healthcare system and coordinate care, such as arranging for home care services or medical equipment
• Advocating for patients’ rights and needs
• Documenting all patient interactions and interventions
• Providing education to patients and their families about their conditions and potential impacts on their lifestyle and well-being
• Assisting in the discharge planning process, ensuring the patient has a safe and supportive environment to return to

 

Health Care Social Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Health Care Social Worker to join our team.

In this role, you will support patients and their families, connecting them with resources and services to help them navigate the health care system.

The Health Care Social Worker’s responsibilities include assessing patients’ psychosocial needs, creating and implementing treatment plans, and providing emotional support to patients and families.

Our ideal candidate has a compassionate nature, strong interpersonal skills, and an understanding of the various social, cultural and economic factors that affect health and well-being.

 

Responsibilities

• Assess patients’ psychosocial status and needs
• Develop and implement patient care plans
• Coordinate with healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care
• Provide counseling and emotional support to patients and their families
• Help patients navigate the healthcare system and access necessary resources and services
• Educate patients and their families about their condition and treatment options
• Advocate for patients’ rights and needs
• Conduct research to improve patient care and healthcare services

 

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited school
• Licensed to practice as a social worker in the state
• Prior experience in a health care setting, preferably with a focus on the specific patient population served
• Knowledge of medical and psychological terminology
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to handle stressful situations and emotionally charged interactions
• Understanding of the social and economic factors that affect health and well-being

 

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee wellness programs

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Health Care Social Worker
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinic setting. May require occasional travel for home visits or community meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Social Work or other designated supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,470 minimum to $82,540 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Health Care Social Worker Do?

Health Care Social Workers are specialized professionals who operate within the healthcare sector.

They primarily work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, private practices, and other healthcare institutions.

Some also work in the public health sector.

Their primary job is to provide psychosocial support to individuals, families, or vulnerable populations so they can cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses, advising family caregivers, providing patient education and counseling, and making necessary referrals for other social services.

These social workers work closely with doctors, nurses, psychologists, and other health professionals to ensure a holistic approach to patient care.

They play a vital role in helping patients navigate through the healthcare system, which includes helping them understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and the medical processes they need to adhere to.

Health Care Social Workers often coordinate with various community resources to assist in care and recovery, such as arranging at-home health care, meal deliveries, or rehabilitation.

They may also provide therapeutic services to help patients deal with stress, anxiety, or depression related to their medical condition.

In addition, they advocate for patients’ rights and needs, ensuring that they receive appropriate health care and have access to the resources they require.

They often act as a crucial bridge between the healthcare system and the patient, empowering and supporting the individual throughout their healthcare journey.

 

Health Care Social Worker Qualifications and Skills

A Health Care Social Worker should have the following skills and qualifications that are crucial for the job:

• Knowledge of the medical field and understanding of various health conditions and treatments to provide appropriate social services and counseling to patients and their families.
• Excellent communication skills to convey complex medical information to patients and families, and to collaborate with healthcare providers and other professionals.
• Empathy and emotional resilience to support individuals and families in stressful situations and cope with the emotional challenges of the job.
• Problem-solving skills to assess patient needs, develop care plans, coordinate resources, and navigate the healthcare system.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple case files, keep detailed records, and ensure timely follow-up with patients.
• Advocacy skills to represent patients’ interests and rights in the healthcare system and community.
• License to practice as a Social Worker, and preferably, a master’s degree in Social Work (MSW).
• Experience or specialized training in healthcare social work, geriatrics, palliative care, or similar fields may be required.

 

Health Care Social Worker Experience Requirements

Health Care Social Workers typically require a minimum of a Master’s degree in social work (MSW) from an accredited school.

As part of their education, they gain practical experience through internships or supervised fieldwork, which provides them with valuable hands-on experience in the field.

Entry-level health care social workers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in health care settings such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes.

Candidates with 2-3 years of experience are typically adept at providing services such as patient advocacy, counseling, and resource referral.

They may have gained this experience in roles such as Case Manager, Counselor, or Patient Advocate.

Professionals with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their skills in areas such as crisis intervention, therapy, and discharge planning.

They may also have experience in specialized areas of health care social work, such as geriatric, palliative, or pediatric care.

Those with more than 5 years of experience might possess a significant amount of expertise in their specialty area and may have leadership experience.

They are often ready for positions such as Senior Social Worker, Team Leader, or Program Director.

In addition, all states require health care social workers to be licensed, and most employers require their social workers to be certified.

Continuing education is also often necessary to maintain licensure and stay current with developments in the field.

 

Health Care Social Worker Education and Training Requirements

Health Care Social Workers typically require a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) as a minimum educational requirement, although some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in social work (MSW).

The bachelor’s degree program in social work includes courses in human behavior, diversity and social justice, social welfare policy, and research in social work.

The master’s degree program involves more advanced coursework and extensive fieldwork.

Additionally, all states require health care social workers to be licensed, although licensing requirements vary by state.

Generally, they require a minimum of a master’s degree in social work and two years of supervised clinical experience after graduation.

After completing their supervised experience, health care social workers can sit for a clinical exam to become licensed.

Some positions may also require health care social workers to complete specialized training in areas such as geriatrics, end-of-life care, or child welfare.

Continued professional development through workshops, seminars, or further education is also often encouraged to keep up-to-date with new research and techniques in the field.

Certification is not required but can demonstrate expertise and commitment.

The National Association of Social Workers offers several types of certification for social workers, including the Certified Clinical Social Worker (CCSW) and the Qualified Clinical Social Worker (QCSW).

 

Health Care Social Worker Salary Expectations

A Health Care Social Worker can expect to earn an average salary of $58,518 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, and the geographical area in which they work.

It’s also important to note that the employing organization can have a significant impact on the earning potential for this role.

 

Health Care Social Worker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Health Care Social Worker need?

Health Care Social Workers need a range of skills.

They should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with clients, families, and healthcare professionals.

They should be empathetic, as they often work with people going through difficult times.

They also need problem-solving skills to help clients overcome challenges and crises, and organizational skills to manage multiple cases simultaneously.

Knowledge of medical terminology and understanding healthcare systems are also advantageous.

 

Do Health Care Social Workers need a degree?

Yes, Health Care Social Workers typically need a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW), but some employers may require a master’s degree in social work (MSW).

In addition, all states require Health Care Social Workers to be licensed, though the requirements vary.

 

What should you look for in a Health Care Social Worker resume?

When reviewing a Health Care Social Worker resume, you should look for a degree in social work and a valid state license.

Experience in a healthcare setting is also essential.

Look for the applicant’s experience with case management, patient advocacy, and counseling.

Skills in crisis intervention, needs assessment, and care coordination are also highly desirable.

 

What qualities make a good Health Care Social Worker?

A good Health Care Social Worker is compassionate and supportive, with a genuine desire to help others.

They should be patient and understanding, as they often work with individuals and families facing difficult situations.

Good problem-solving skills, resilience, and ability to handle stress are crucial.

They should be able to listen effectively and communicate clearly with clients and other healthcare professionals.

 

What are the daily duties of a Health Care Social Worker?

A Health Care Social Worker’s daily duties may include conducting patient assessments, providing counseling, and coordinating care plans.

They may also make referrals to other resources, advocate for patient rights, and provide education about available community resources.

They often work as part of a team with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, and they document and maintain patient records as per legal and ethical guidelines.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a health care social worker.

And guess what?

It’s not just about offering help.

It’s about shaping the future of health care, one patient at a time.

With our handy health care social worker job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why halt your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating finely-detailed job postings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient interaction is a part of the broader health care tapestry.

Let’s weave that future. Together.

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