Discharge Coordinator

Job Overview :

The Discharge Coordinator, in collaboration with the multidisciplinary clinical treatment team (inclusive of nursing and social work), is responsible for the organization of all the patient s discharge planning needs. Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: implementing and overseeing the referral process for the next level of care, coordination with patient s family/support members for meetings and discharge planning, providing education and resources to patients 1:1 and through group facilitation, participation in unit-based treatment team and run down and arranging/addressing transportation and related issues. The Discharge Coordinator takes an active role in hospital functions and activities. All methods of practice shall conform to written hospital policies and procedures and be carried out to the highest achievable level of competence in a manner demonstrating concern and consideration.

Qualifications :

Required:

• Bachelor s Degree in Psychology or other related Human Services field or LPN licensure

Preferred:

• BSW
• 3 years experience in an inpatient psychiatric unit

Scheduling Requirements:

• Shift working, 8:30am - 5:00pm
• Monday - Friday
• Full-Time

Essential Functions :

• Coordinates patient s discharge planning needs after consultation with the therapist
• Reviews discharge planning options and evaluates alternatives with patient and their significant others to enhance their acceptance of plans and services
• Facilitates the smooth transfer from SBBHC to another facility or a home environment setting
• Appropriately arranges and coordinates all pre-placement interviews. Arranges transportation for interviews or aftercare
• Meets with patients to discuss their needs, wants, and resources
• Advises patients of available agency resources if their needs indicate such
• Consults with the treatment team as to a projected optimum discharge date
• Discusses placement alternatives and possibilities with the patient s therapist and family members (if indicated)
• Maintains a positive working relationship with outside community mental health agencies in coordinating the appropriate patient discharge plan
• Acts as an advocate in helping the patient acquire the necessary services when they are unable to negotiate for themselves
• Consults with the patient s treatment team regarding the actual discharge plan to be pursued and works closely with the therapist and patient to reach the desired goal
• Documents all involvement with the patient s discharge plan in the chart
• Monitors the appropriate key processes associated with the discharge planning services
• Implements the policies and procedures of the Behavioral Health facility. Performs interventions in accordance with current policy and procedure, safety guidelines and infection control principles
• Adheres to Attendance and Reliability Standards. Gives proper notification for absence or tardiness as per policy
• Performs other duties as directed by Department Head/Supervisor

Benefits and Perks :

At RWJBarnabas Health, our market-competitive Total Rewards package provides comprehensive benefits and resources to support our employees physical, emotional, social, and financial health.

• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Medical and Prescription Drug Insurance
• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Retirement Plans
• Wellness Programs
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Short & Long-Term Disability
• Life & Accidental Death Insurance
• Voluntary Benefits (e.g., Pet Insurance)
• Health Care/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Discounts Through our Partners such as NJ Devils, NJ PAC, Verizon, and more!

Choosing RWJBarnabas Health!

RWJBarnabas Health is the premier health care destination providing patient-centered, high-quality academic medicine in a compassionate and equitable manner, while delivering a best-in-class work experience to every member of the team. We honor and appreciate the privilege of creating and sustaining healthier communities, one person and one community at a time. As the leading academic health system in New Jersey, we advance innovative strategies in high-quality patient care, education, and research to address both the clinical and social determinants of health.

RWJBarnabas Health aims to truly make a unique impact in local communities throughout New Jersey. From vastly improving the health of local residents to creating educational and career opportunities, this combination greatly benefits the state. We understand the growing and evolving needs of residents in New Jersey whether that be enhancing the coordination for treating complex health conditions or improving community health through local programs and education.

RWJBarnabas Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer