Social Worker (MSW) (Priority Access)

Description JOB SUMMARY

Within the context of a client and family centered care model and in accordance with established standards of professional practice and vision and values of the organization, works collaboratively as a member of a multidisciplinary care team to determine care needs and facilitate the placement of clients who meet the care criteria required for Priority Access registration into residential care, palliative care, assisted living or supported housing for person’s with disabilities. Reviews documents and assessments from other health care professionals in order to prepare comprehensive client packages. Liaises with care facilities to review prospective clients and ensure appropriateness of clients for placement. Provides clinical and consultative social work services to referring services such as reviewing social and psychosocial assessments and preparing and presenting case histories. Evaluates client’s response to treatment plan. Identifies/assesses potential legal, ethical and professional implications of decisions. Evaluates progress of home support clients and participates in inter-agency case management. Develops and enhances community communications/relationships, provides consultation services, engages in on-going team planning, program/service development, evaluations and quality improvement activities to achieve excellence in client care.

Qualifications

Education & Experience Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited School of Social Work. Two (2) years’ recent, related experience, preferably in community health, including experience in home care, residential care and geriatric assessment centres or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Prior direct experience working in Priority Access or on a Facility Liaison Team in a residential setting is an asset. Current full registration with the British Columbia College of Social Workers.Valid BC Drivers License. Local area travel may require the use of a personal vehicle.Knowledge & AbilitiesDemonstrated knowledge of the geriatric population and associated psychosocial issues related to this population.Demonstrated knowledge of the current long term care service delivery system.Demonstrated understanding of the broad determinants of health.Demonstrated knowledge of provincial legislation and health authority standards and policies related to Residential Care Access Policy.Demonstrated knowledge of hospital discharge processes, including Alternate Level of Care.Demonstrated knowledge of facilitation, mediation and conflict resolution techniques.Demonstrated analytical and critical thinking and problem solving abilities.Demonstrated ability to communicate with and deal effectively with co-workers, physicians, other health care staff, clients and their families/care givers, and staff of outside agencies both one on one and in groups, orally and in writing.Demonstrated ability to independently plan, organize and prioritize work, adapt to a changing workload and work under deadlines.Demonstrated ability to adapt to change and adjust to new or unexpected events. Comprehensive knowledge of other health disciplines and their role in client care and other health and community resources related to the care of clients and caregivers.Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively as a member of an interdisciplinary team.Demonstrated ability to apply acquired analytical/investigative skills and the knowledge to effectively gather, maintain and analyze statistics.Demonstrated ability to establish workload priorities and apply time management skills to prioritize and complete assignments and schedule activities in a manner that optimizes effectiveness.Demonstrates ability to problem solve using sound judgment in applying critical thinking skills within safe limits of client care.Demonstrated ability to utilize computer applications necessary for completing day-to-day functions and maintaining client records and ability to operate other related equipment.Demonstrated skill in CPR techniques.Demonstrated physical ability to perform the duties of the position.The hours of work including days off and work area may be subject to change consistent with operational requirements and the provision of the Collective Agreement and applicable statutes. Details At Vancouver Coastal Health, our vision of healthy lives in healthy communities inspires us and our values and pillars guide us. We support equitable practices, diverse teams and inclusive environments, which are vital to creating welcoming spaces where everyone can bring their whole selves to work and feel supported. We encourage applications from equity-deserving communities, including Indigenous Peoples and members of racialized groups, people with disabilities and people of all gender identities and expressions and sexual orientation.Vancouver Coastal Health is proud to be recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, BC’s Top Employers, Canada’s Best Diversity Employers and Canada's Top Employers for Young People in 2026.Unless otherwise noted on the posting, internal job postings close at 8:00 AM Pacific Time on the listed Closing Date. Please submit your digital application via the Internal Career Portal prior to the Closing Date & Time.Nursing & LPN successful applicants will be notified by email.We regret that only short listed candidates will be acknowledged.This is an internal job posting for Vancouver Coastal Health employees only.