Discharge Planner

Description Position Summary: Responsible for the coordination and implementation of case management strategies pursuant to the discharge process. To provide efficient, quality discharge planning services to patients and their families from initial intake to discharge; to serve as a member of interdisciplinary team supporting the organization's treatment program and philosophy and assure the deliverance of quality treatment to patients and their families. Participates in performance improvement activities. Attends 80% of staff meetings. Coordinates care for patient through communication with Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Services, Nursing, and Intake Department. Attends treatment team meetings as scheduled. Position Responsibilities: Clinical / Technical Skills (40% of performance review) Evaluates patient care plans on a regular basis and updates the care plans when needed. Faxes aftercare plans to referrals within 24 hours of discharge. Plans patient care in collaboration with all members of the healthcare team. Consults with other departments, as appropriate, to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities. Collaborates with other departments to identify operational problems and develop solutions/resolution. Works with all members of the healthcare team to assure a collaborative approach is maintained in care and treatment of the patient. Works closely with social worker to integrate psychosocial management of patient/family needs. Attends treatment team daily, coordinates care plan with patient, MD, therapist and RN. Initial discharge plan formulated and noted on psychosocial assessment form within 72 hours of admission Assists the Utilization Management Department with all utilization activities as requested and directed. Participates in education on and implementation of clinical guidelines and protocols. Documentation meets current standards and policies. Maintains optimal continuum of patient care through efficient and effective planning, assessing and coordination of healthcare services. Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations. Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments. Develops and coordinates an individualized discharge plan for the patient by utilizing treatment team and written chart information to determine the patient's aftercare needs. Accesses by phone or written correspondence family or community resources such as nursing homes, group homes, or private mental health practitioners to meet patients' aftercare needs. Coordinates with team members to incorporate discharge planning in all phases of patient care by discussing written progress notes from charts and communicating any state or local agency legal requirement for referral/discharge planning with the interdisciplinary team. Documents treatment provided to patient in medical record. Performs other duties as assigned. Safety (15% of performance review) Strives to create a safe, healing environment for patients and family members Follows all safety rules while on the job. Reports near misses,