POSITION SUMMARY:

This position provides spiritual and bereavement support to patients and families consistent with beliefs of the patient. Serves as a member of the interdisciplinary team to develop the plan of care. Acts as a liaison between the community religious affiliations and the hospice program.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

• Four units of Clinical Pastoral Education accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, Inc.

• Must have formal theological education in pastoral care, theology, and/or psychology.

• Experience in counseling: prefer in a home care setting.

  EXPERIENCE:

• 2 years of comparable experience.

  COMPETENCIES:

• Knowledge of computer information systems and the ability to work independently.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Demonstrates competence in organizing and presenting educational programs.

• Good listener with excellent inter-personal skills.

• Ability to drive a car, possession of a current driver’s license, and access to a car. Must show proof of automobile insurance with State of Connecticut minimum liability coverage.

  ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

  Disclaimer: Job descriptions are not intended, nor should they be construed to be, exhaustive lists of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. They are intended to be accurate reflections of the principal duties and responsibilities of this position. These responsibilities and competencies listed below may change from time to time. Eastern Connecticut Health Network reserves the right to change or assign other duties and responsibilities to this position

• Participates as an active member of the interdisciplinary team to develop and implement a comprehensive plan of care.

• Communicates clearly and effectively fostering a positive, proactive environment while adhering to high standards of ethics and quality.

• Provides patient and family spiritual counseling, prayer and ministry as requested.

• Develops and provides educational in-service programs for staff, community and clergy regarding spiritual aspects of patient care.

• Provides oversight and assistance in preparation of memorial service.

• Liaison to area clergy as directed by Spiritual Care Coordinator. Lectures to Churches/Synagogues/Community groups on Hospice and VNHSC Hospice and Palliative Program.

• Assure that documentation is complete to meet state and federal regulatory standards.

• Completes a bereavement assessment on each family referred. When requested, offers grief/bereavement and/or spiritual support to dying patient/family.

• Visits homes, hospitals, and nursing homes for VNHSC Hospice/Palliative patients and other referrals from the community in need of bereavement support.