Our Discharge Planner job description includes the responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.
About the Discharge Planner role
A Discharge Planner is a healthcare professional who assists patients with transitioning from a hospital setting to a home or other care setting, and assists with the coordination of resources to support post-hospitalization care. The Discharge Planner identifies and arranges appropriate follow-up care and services, while providing patient/family education, counseling and support.
Role Purpose
The purpose of a Discharge Planner is to coordinate patient care and services during the transition from an inpatient facility to an outpatient setting. They work with patients, families, physicians, and community service providers to develop and implement a plan that best meets the patient's needs. Discharge Planners assess patient eligibility and resources, develop an individualized plan of care, ensure continuity of care and provide counseling and education to patients and family members. They also assist in obtaining necessary referrals, authorizations, and financial assistance for services and care.
Discharge Planner Summary
The Discharge Planner is responsible for developing and implementing plans for the safe and effective transition of patients from inpatient to outpatient or community settings. The Discharge Planner will assess the patient's physical, emotional, and social needs and create an individualized discharge plan. This will include coordinating with healthcare team members, social workers, and other community resources to ensure the patient's successful transition. The Discharge Planner will also ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed and that the patient is referred to appropriate resources. This position requires excellent communication and organizational skills.
Discharge Planner Duties
- Coordinate discharge planning process for patients leaving hospitals or other healthcare settings
- Develop and implement individualized discharge plans for patients
- Identify and arrange for post-discharge services such as home healthcare, long-term care, and community resources
- Ensure appropriate follow-up appointments and services are scheduled
- Provide education and counseling to patients and families
- Communicate regularly with healthcare staff, patients, and families on discharge planning progress
Discharge Planner Skills
- Organizational skills
- Ability to work with diverse populations
- Knowledge of community resources
- Knowledge of medical and mental health treatment
- Ability to assess client needs
Discharge Planner Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field
- Knowledge of mental health, psychology, and substance abuse counseling
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to work with a variety of individuals, including those with varying levels of functioning
- Experience working with individuals in the discharge planning process
Personal Traits
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to work well with diverse groups of people
- Strong organizational skills
- Ability to work independently
- Ability to make sound decisions
- Knowledge of social services and public benefits