Social Worker MSW - Pediatric Hematology-Oncology

The Social Worker will be a core member of the interdisciplinary team in the MCH Hemoglobinopathy Clinic, providing care across the life spectrum for patients with inherited blood disorders - particularly Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia.  The Social Worker will engage in comprehensive psychosocial assessments for patients and their families to identify strengths, problem-solving abilities, dynamics, interactions, attitudes, feelings and cultural issues in relation to the patient’s medical issues and journey. The Social Worker will develop and implement a plan of intervention, which addresses coping, adaptation, compliance and quality of life.  The Social Worker with employ a variety of modalities including counseling, group work, consultation, case management, community outreach and advocacy. The Social Worker will work collaboratively with the health care team, identify, and make referrals to appropriate supports and resources.

The Social Worker will integrate research and practice. Regarding providing comprehensive care, the SW will demonstrate excellent understanding of the inequities regularly encountered by populations experiencing inherited blood disorders - particularly Sickle Cell Disease - and will demonstrate experience working with these populations to mitigate these inequities and improve patient experiences and outcomes.  Recognizing that patients in this clinic come from diverse ethnocultural backgrounds and socioeconomic circumstances, outstanding communication skills and passion for social justice and health equity will be important characteristics for the successful candidate.

• Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work (MSW) from an accredited School of Social Work

• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience working with patients (adults and pediatrics) experiencing complex chronic medical conditions, dealing with death or disability, bereavement issues and chronic progressive illnesses

• Experience in advocacy for equity-deserving individuals and populations

• Demonstrated experience providing equitable and inclusive care to parents, adults and children from historically excluded and marginalized communities including folks who are Indigenous, Black, racialized, disabled, and/or Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+. 

• Demonstrated understanding and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion including evidence of education and learning undertaken in this space.   

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills and ability to collaborate within an interdisciplinary team

• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced changed environment

• Knowledge and experience utilizing community resources and engaging in the referral process

• Knowledge and interest in research for this specific population

• Demonstrated expertise in assessment, counseling, crisis intervention, advocacy and teaching

• Proven ability to organize, prioritize and solve problems effectively

• Familiarity with Child and Family Services Act, Consent to Treatment Act, and Mental Health Act and other related legislation specific to role

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in family-centered care 

• Demonstrated understanding and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion 

• Qualified as a field instructor for social work students with demonstrated experience supervising students and acting as a role model

• Demonstrated commitment to ongoing learning