Summary
An overview of the core duties and professional standards for hospice care staff supporting patients and families at the end of life.
Hospice Social Worker Role and Responsibilities
Highlights
Patient and Family Support
Staff are responsible for educating clients on end-of-life symptoms and options, providing grief and death-related counseling, and assisting with advance directives, funeral arrangements, and discharge planning.
Clinical Assessment and Coordination
A Comprehensive Assessment must be completed within five days of hospice election to evaluate psychosocial, financial, and environmental needs. This involves active participation in IDG/IDT meetings and coordinating community resource referrals.
Professional Standards and Compliance
Employees must maintain professional competency, adhere to public and private eligibility standards, follow infection control policies, and contribute to the Hospice's Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement (QAPI) program to ensure high-quality care.