JOB SUMMARY (overview of job): The Bereavement and Volunteer Coordinator demonstrates knowledge of end-of-life and the stages of grieving. Provides emotional support and resources to families and the community, and oversees the bereavement needs of hospice families. Coordinates with the interdisciplinary team for volunteer services in the home and upates the hospice plan of care when volunteers are utilized. Volunteers may also choose to be available for special projects, office, or library work to support the Hospice interdisciplinary team. The Bereavement and Volunteer coordinator is under the direction of the Director or designee. Will conduct at least annual volunteer training and recruitment, along with annual volunteer reviews. Shares the responsibilities with Hospice social workers of facilitating the Community Grief Group at least one-time per year. Completes documentation in a timely and accurate manner according to hospice policy and regulatory requirements. Effectively manages a group of bereavement families and supports the community, and coordinates with the hospice social workers to ensure hospice family bereavement needs are met. Supports the hospice social work team to ensure the emotional needs of patients and families are being met while on service. Works collaboratively with other members of the interdisciplinary team (IDT), physicians, families, and the community emphasizing a teamwork environment. Ability to implement quality care standards for patients served. Coordinates the annual “Light a Life” program with the Foundation, and works with volunteers to ensure its success. Delegates appropriate tasks as needed. Works with the Director and/or Clinical Manager/Coordinator to assure assigned bereavement calls or visits are being conducted and documented within the EMR. Annually calculates the volunteer hours per regulation to ensure volunteer 5% cost savings, and develops the annual cost savings report for the Director and/or clinical coordinator. Develops an individualized bereavement plan of care that captures the impact the death has had on a particular individual. Documents mailings and other correspondence in the EMR. Other tasks as assigned.

COMMUNICATION: Demonstrates good communication skills to facilitate implementation of quality core measures (HIS) and to ensure the provision of safe, quality care. Attends meetings and weekly IDT case conferences. Maintains open communication with the interdisciplinary team, Director, and Clinical Supervisor in relation to volunteer/bereavement responsibilities. Utilizes appropriate chain of command to collaboratively and proactively problem solve as needed. Diffuses patient/family complaints prior to involving the Director or Clinical Coordinator. Attends education when offered related to competencies or changes in processes. Understands the regulatory requirements for the position.

ADAPTABILITY: Has a “can do” attitude, keeps the department running smoothly, promotes teamwork, and a no-blaming environment while setting the tone for the department by being a good role model. Manages up to support team when appropriate. Maintains a positive attitude and flexibility regarding fluctuating patient census and staffing needs. Demonstrates critical thinking skills and actively completes assignments, documentation per agency policy. Able to prioritize and multi-task when the department gets busy. Keeps calm during stressful times.

KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE: Minimum of two years of related clinical experience preferred. Knowledge of hospice program and philosophy, interdisciplinary team concepts and confidentiality. Understands and has comfort level with the dying and grief process and have the ability to follow directions and complete appropriate documentation required by the program. Sufficient knowledge of hospice philosophy, critical thinking skills, and the experience to demonstrate ability to work autonomously. Must demonstrate knowledge of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and other regulatory bodies pertaining to the department. Experience or education in grief and loss counseling preferred.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s of Social Work preferred, or Bachelor’s Degree in a similar area of study (psychology, sociology, or other field related to social work) required.

  LICENSE/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRY:

• Continuing education credits each year.