Hospice Social Worker Certification

The National Association of Social Workers and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization developed the Hospice and Palliative Social Worker credentials. Experienced social workers interested in working with hospice patients and their families can apply for this certification.

Purpose

The purpose of the hospice social worker certification is to prepare licensed, practicing social workers for careers in hospices or palliative care facilities. The credential verifies to employers that a social worker is skilled in the unique needs of hospice patients and settings.

Types

There are two options for social workers interested in obtaining the hospice credential: the Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker (CHP-SW) or the Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker (ACHP-SW). The CHP-SW credential is designed for those with two to four years of hospice or palliative social work experience; the advanced certification is for candidates with a masters in social work and two years of experience in hospice care.

Function

According to the certification materials, social workers who have obtained the hospice credential are prepared to address the special needs of both patients and their families. They are also trained to develop, implement and evaluate care plans that address not only psychological issues but also the effects of pain or symptoms on patients. In addition, these social workers assess and intervene in cases of patient abuse.

References

• National Association of Social Workers: Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker (CHP-SW) and Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker (ACHP-SW)
• National Association of Social Workers: Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker Application Materials
• National Association of Social Workers: Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker Application Materials