Discharge Planner

Westside Terrace Healthcare•Dothan, AL

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Discharge Planner is a vital member of the healthcare team responsible for coordinating and facilitating the smooth transition of residents from our Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF). This position requires an organized and compassionate individual with a focus on ensuring that the discharge process is well-planned, individualized, and supportive of the resident's continued care needs.

Requirements

Must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age-related needs of the residents served.
Must be a supportive team member, contribute to and be an example of teamwork and team concept.
Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel, and the general public.
Must be able to relate information concerning a resident’s condition.
Must not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace.
Must be able to move intermittently throughout the workday.
Must be able to read, speak, and understandably write the English language.
Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.
Must function independently, and have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with residents, personnel, and support agencies.
Must meet the general health requirements set forth by the policies of this facility, which include a medical and physical examination if the position requires.
Must be able to relate to and work with the ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset, and, at times, hostile people within the facility.
Must be able to push, pull, move, and/or lift a minimum of 50 pounds to a minimum height of 5 feet and be able to push, pull, move, and/or carry such weight a minimum distance of 50 feet.
May be necessary to assist in the evacuation of residents during emergencies.

Nice To Haves

Experience in discharge planning in a healthcare or SNF setting is preferred.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to discharge planning.
Certification in Case Management or Discharge Planning is preferred.
Familiarity with electronic health record systems.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive assessments of residents' care needs, discharge goals, and post-discharge support requirements.
Collaborate with the interdisciplinary healthcare team to develop individualized discharge plans.
Communicate regularly with residents, their families, and healthcare providers to discuss the discharge process, expectations, and post-discharge care plans.
Serve as a liaison between our SNF, home healthcare agencies, rehabilitation centers, and other post-acute care providers.
Coordinate services and resources required for post-discharge care, including home health services, medical equipment, and follow-up appointments.
Collaborate with external providers to ensure a seamless transition of care.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of discharge plans, goals, and communication with residents and families.
Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and facility policies.
Advocate for residents' needs and preferences in the development of discharge plans.
Assist residents and families in understanding and navigating the post-discharge care process.
Provide education to residents and their families on the management of chronic conditions, medications, and self-care strategies post-discharge.
Offer emotional support and counseling as needed during the discharge planning process.
Conduct follow-up assessments and communication after discharge to assess the success of the transition and address any issues that may arise.
Collaborate with our SNF healthcare team to evaluate and improve the discharge planning process.
Maintains a liaison with the residents, their families, support departments, etc., to adequately plan for the residents’ needs.
All Other Duties as Assigned.