Withdrawal Management Discharge Planner

CareWell Health•East Orange, NJ

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Coordinates and manages discharge planning for patients admitted to the Withdrawal Management Unit (WMU) with substance use disorders and co-occurring medical and/or psychiatric conditions. Ensures safe, timely, and appropriate transitions to the next level of care based on ASAM criteria and individual patient needs. Works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team and community providers to support continuity of care and recovery outcomes. The role is performed in an acute care hospital detox/withdrawal management unit. The position is non-exempt. The employee may also be assigned additional tasks and responsibilities to support the unit and organization, and duties may change based on departmental or organizational needs.

Requirements

Associate or bachelor's degree in social work, counseling, or a related field.
At least 2 years of behavioral health or substance use disorder experience.
Strong communication and coordination skills.
Knowledge of ASAM Criteria and the substance use treatment continuum.
Ability to communicate clearly and observe patient needs.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and respond promptly to patient needs.
Ability to walk and stand frequently, and to sit, bend, reach, and move between patient care areas.

Nice To Haves

CADC/LCADC or equivalent addiction certification.
At least 1 year of experience in a detox/withdrawal management or acute care setting.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and implement individualized discharge plans for all WMU patients.
Identify appropriate next levels of care, such as residential treatment, PHP, IOP, outpatient care, or MAT, based on clinical needs and ASAM recommendations.
Schedule follow-up appointments before discharge and document the appointment date, time, and provider.
Facilitate referrals to substance use treatment programs, mental health services, primary care providers, and housing and social support services.
Coordinate transitions with receiving facilities and providers, and transmit required clinical documentation.
Educate patients about their discharge plans, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) options, and relapse prevention strategies; confirm their understanding of follow-up instructions.
Participate in daily multidisciplinary rounds and communicate discharge barriers to the team.
Collaborate with physicians, nursing staff, counselors, and case management to resolve discharge barriers.
Align discharge planning with patient progress, identify barriers early, and support timely discharge and appropriate patient flow.
Document discharge planning activities in the EMR in accordance with hospital policy and applicable regulatory requirements, including Joint Commission, CMS, and NJ DOH requirements.
Ensure documentation includes the discharge plan, aftercare appointments, patient education, and coordination efforts.
Perform additional tasks or assignments as needed to support WMU and organizational operations.