Discharge Planner

A discharge planner in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) plays a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive appropriate care and support as they transition out of the facility. Here's a general job description for a discharge planner in an SNF:

Position Title: Discharge Planner

Overview: The discharge planner is responsible for coordinating and facilitating the safe and timely discharge of patients from the skilled nursing facility to their next level of care or home environment. This role involves collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, patients, families, and external stakeholders to ensure continuity of care and adherence to discharge plans.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assessment and Planning:
   • Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' medical, social, and functional needs to develop individualized discharge plans.
   • Collaborate with healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, therapists, and social workers, to gather relevant information for discharge planning.
   • Identify potential barriers to discharge and develop strategies to address them effectively.
2. Coordination and Communication:
   • Coordinate discharge planning meetings with the interdisciplinary team to review patient progress and finalize discharge plans.
   • Communicate discharge plans to patients, families, and caregivers in a clear and empathetic manner, addressing any concerns or questions they may have.
   • Liaise with external healthcare providers, community resources, and agencies to arrange post-discharge services, such as home health care, durable medical equipment, and transportation.
3. Documentation and Compliance:
   • Ensure accurate and timely documentation of discharge plans, including goals, interventions, and arrangements for follow-up care.
   • Adhere to regulatory requirements, facility policies, and third-party payer guidelines related to discharge planning and documentation.
   • Maintain confidentiality of patient information and comply with HIPAA regulations at all times.
4. Support and Advocacy:
   • Advocate for patients' needs and preferences throughout the discharge planning process, ensuring that their rights and autonomy are respected.
   • Provide emotional support and education to patients and families regarding post-discharge care instructions, medication management, and community resources.
   • Address concerns and complaints related to discharge planning promptly and escalate issues as needed to ensure resolution.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in social work, nursing, or a related field.
• Previous experience in discharge planning, case management, or healthcare coordination preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Knowledge of healthcare systems, community resources, and reimbursement mechanisms.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, problem-solve, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems and Microsoft Office applications.

Certifications:

• Depending on the jurisdiction and employer requirements, certification as a Certified Case Manager (CCM), Certified Social Worker in Health Care (C-SWHC), or similar credential may be preferred or required.

This job description outlines the essential duties and qualifications for a discharge planner in a skilled nursing facility. However, specific responsibilities and requirements may vary depending on the facility's size, specialization, and regulatory environment.

Salary/ Wage Range

Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies and experience and may fall outside of the range shown.

Benefits:

• Dental Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Basic Term Life and AD&D Insurance & Voluntary Term Life and AD&D Insurance
• Wellness Program
• Paid Time Off
• 401(k)
• Accident coverage, Hospital Indemnity coverage, Critical Illness coverage, Legal and Credit coverage
• As a part of our team, you will receive compensation for your orientation period at the same rate as your base pay
• Monthly Schedules on Mobile App: Stay organized and plan ahead, making it convenient for you to manage your work-life balance.
• On-Demand Payroll Status: Keep track of your earnings effortlessly
• Our mobile app enables you to access your payroll status on demand, providing you with transparency and financial convenience
• Holiday Pay and Overtime Pay: We recognize the importance of holidays and the extra effort you put in during overtime
• You will be eligible for holiday pay and overtime pay, ensuring your dedication is duly rewarded with our already high payrates
• Professional Development: Expand your knowledge and skills through ongoing training and educational opportunities, fostering career growth

We are committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We do not discriminate in recruiting, hiring or promotion based on race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, age, disability or protected veteran status. We proudly support and encourage people with military experience (active, veterans, reservists and National Guard) as well as military spouses to apply for our job opportunities.