Hospice Music Therapist, Per Diem - Hospice of Santa Cruz County

The Music Therapist serves as a member of the hospice interdisciplinary team, and provides direct service to patients and families in home and in facilities. Contributes to the day-to-day operations of the Volunteer Visitor program including reporting in the Electronic Medical Record as well as assisting in preparation of trainings and continuing education related to volunteers. Screens for urgent issues and reports to appropriate staff as indicated.

Essential Responsibilities

Volunteer Visitor Program
• Provides direct service to hospice patients and their families in homes and facilities.
• Promptly completes and maintains all required documentation.
• Communicates urgent or unusual occurrences via voicemail to the Director of Volunteer Services (DVS), POD members & Team Leaders regarding VV's visits.
• Conduct assessments and provide interventions that meet individual and family needs.
• Participates in VV fall and spring trainings.
• Educates hospice staff about the role of the Music Therapist and the use of music therapy interventions with hospice patients/families.
• On-going program development and evaluation of music therapy services.
• Consults with team members.
• Development and supervision of internship program and music therapy interns.
• Conducts Inservice programs and training opportunities for Volunteer Visitors and outside public relations activities as needed.
• Participates in the annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.
• Assess music therapy equipment including inventory, maintenance and use of equipment.
• Follow appropriate infection control policies.
• Performs other related job duties as assigned by Supervisor.

Compliance
• Ensures all HIPAA Privacy and Security Regulations, Medicare Conditions of Participation, and all other regulatory/compliance requirements are understood and followed.
Requirements

Education/Experience
• Certified music therapist required.
• Masters degree in music therapy/counseling preferred.
• At least two years of experience in the field desired. Experience with elders/terminally ill preferred.
• Soothing and pleasant singing voice.
• Ability to create a safe environment and mode of expression through music.
• Proficient on an accompanying instrument.
• Proficient in utilizing music therapy techniques to assist the patient and family with the following:
1. Visual motor stimulation
2. Pain, discomfort
3. Anxiety, restlessness, respiratory difficulties, insomnia
4. Depression, emotional outlet.
5. Loss of speech or language barrier
6. Need for meaningful activity
7. Lack of support system, isolation
8. Difficulty expressing feelings or interacting with others.
9. Need for spiritual expression
10. Anticipatory grief, multiple losses

Skills Required
• Strong knowledge of MS Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Certifications, Licenses, Registrations
• Pass OIG/GSA review and all required background checks and TB test.
Physical Demands
• Strength to lift and carry materials weighing up to 10 pounds
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
• Hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone

Work Environment/Environmental Condition
• Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer.
• Must be able to drive and have car available, valid driver's license, proof of insurance.