Hospital Discharge Specialist
About The Position
The Hospital Discharge Specialist implements Copa Health’s Hospital Readmission and Discharge Coordination protocol under the oversight of the Copa Clinical Director and Director of Medical Management. The role works with inpatient and outpatient care teams to assess individual needs and develop plans with members that support long-term health and reduce the likelihood of readmission. It also provides additional support to assigned primary case managers, helping members engage in follow-up care, understand and implement post-discharge or post-visit medical orders, and coordinate specialized placements such as skilled nursing centers, home health, and residential settings. The specialist facilitates communication and coordination among inpatient teams, RBHA, outpatient teams, and family or natural supports to develop and implement discharge plans. The role completes required discharge-planning documents, submits documentation and referral packages to RBHA and community providers in a timely manner, and coordinates with Copa’s care team to schedule post-discharge appointments within 72 hours. It also supports follow-through on discharge recommendations and services and identifies gaps in services.
Requirements
- High school diploma/GED or an associate degree combined with eight years of direct care experience.
- Must have a Level 1 fingerprint clearance card issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety or be eligible to receive one within eight weeks of hire.
- Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license and meet Copa’s driving requirements.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in behavioral health or a related field and three years of direct care experience.
- Previous behavioral health or primary care experience involving case management and care coordination.
- Demonstrated experience and knowledge in discharge planning and readmission prevention processes.
Responsibilities
- Implement the Hospital Readmission and Discharge Coordination protocol under the oversight of the Copa Clinical Director and Director of Medical Management.
- Collaborate with inpatient and outpatient care teams to assess individual needs and develop plans with members that promote long-term health and reduce readmission risk.
- Support assigned primary case managers in facilitating member engagement and follow-up care, understanding and implementing post-discharge or post-visit medical orders, and coordinating specialized placements.
- Coordinate specialized post-discharge or post-visit placements, including skilled nursing centers, home health, and residential settings.
- Facilitate communication and coordination with inpatient teams, RBHA, outpatient teams, and family or natural supports to develop and implement discharge plans.
- Complete discharge-planning documents and submit documentation and referral packages to RBHA and community providers in a timely manner.
- Coordinate with the Copa care team to schedule post-discharge appointments within 72 hours of discharge.
- Ensure follow-through with discharge recommendations and services and identify gaps in services.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Monthly tax-free contribution toward a selected medical plan through the ICHRA program, with guidance and support.
- Dental and vision coverage.
- Up to three weeks of PTO in the first year, plus an additional wellness day.
- Ten paid holidays annually.
- Wellness program, including access to mental health resources.
- Tuition reimbursement up to $3,000.
- 403(b) retirement plan with company match.
- Employee Assistance Program with free coaching and therapy sessions.
- Life insurance, disability coverage, and pet insurance.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
