Chaplain

Hospice of Marion, a member of Empath Health is seeking a compassionate, experienced, and dedicated Chaplain to provide spiritual and emotional support to our patients, families, staff and volunteers.  

The chaplain offers spiritual support and services consistent with the spiritual beliefs of patients and families.  Spiritual care is provided in cooperation with the interdisciplinary team.  The chaplain also provides spiritual support and leadership for staff and volunteers.  He/she serves as a liaison to community clergy and congregations.

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assess spiritual care needs of patient/families referred for spiritual support. Complete initial spiritual care assessment within the timeframe defined by Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.


2. Develop an individualized spiritual care plan customized to patient/family goals, needs and concerns.


3. Consult and collaborate with IDT members and other faith leaders as requested regarding patient/family expressed spiritual care goals and needs.


4. Provide effective interventions as needed for identified spiritual care concerns.


5. Plan, conduct and provide religious services, rituals, sacraments, study of sacred texts, and other sacerdotal functions in keeping with the faith traditions of those involved.


6. Responsible for scheduled on-call rotations, making visits as requested.


7. Provide bereavement support to patients, families, and team members to support effective grieving.


8. Development and provision of patient funerals and memorial services as well as agency community memorial services.


9. Conduct all activities in accordance with professional standards and ethical guidelines


10. Observe proper infection control practices.


11. Ensure patient safety through collaboration with the interdisciplinary group.


12. Document patient care activities in the electronic medical record according to agency guidelines.


13. Regularly attend and contribute to required meetings and committees.


14. Participate in and assist with the orientation of new employees, helping to instill our organizational vision, mission, and values.


15. Collaborate effectively with and provide training for volunteers.


16. Provide emotional/spiritual support to colleagues.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

• Board certified chaplain with Association of Professional Chaplains, National Association of Catholic Chaplains, Neshama Association of Jewish Chaplains, Canadian Association for Spiritual Care, College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy, or Spiritual Care Association strongly preferred. If not, must be eligible and willing to work towards attaining board certification within the first two years of employment.


• Education and/or Experience: Master of Divinity, Theology, Pastoral Care, or related field from an accredited institution, or equivalent level of preparation as determined by their faith group.   


• Additional Education: Minimum of two units of Clinical Pastoral Education.  Four units preferred.


• One to two years of previous experience in spiritual leadership and inter-faith ministry strongly preferred.


• Ability to take a leadership role in change management and conflict resolution.


• Compassion for and understanding of ministry to the terminally ill, their caregivers and families.


• Sufficient spiritual and emotional maturity to understand and exhibit healthy professional boundaries when working with a highly vulnerable population.


• Ability to work collaboratively as a member of an interdisciplinary group, health care experience preferred.


• Ability to be an educator, advocate and resource for patients and families, team members, community clergy and congregations regarding the spiritual issues and care of the terminally ill.


• Competent in computer skills with ability to learn complex clinical documentation programs.


• Ability to organize, arrange for, or conduct memorial services as requested.


• Sufficient training and experience to participate in bereavement service


• Must have reliable transportation which will enable them to perform tasks and responsibilities in a timely and appropriate fashion. Must be able to provide proof of automobile insurance, a copy of which will be placed in their employee file.

Empath Health values diversity as it strengthens our community and care. We embrace the diversity of cultures, thoughts, beliefs and traditions of our employees, volunteers and people we are honored to serve across our network. Our diverse staff reflects our community and each day, we work to be respectful, sensitive and competent with each other and those in our care. In every journey, we are dedicated to achieving comfort, dignity and exceptional care. Those of all backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply with us or seek our care and services.

Our commitment to patient, client, staff and volunteer safety is a cornerstone of a High Reliability Organization with a focus on zero harm. Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Empath Health employees.

Providing compassionate, full life care is an honor we take seriously at Empath Health. Join our team and make a positive impact in the community!