Discharge Planner/Social Worker (Req 3490)

POSITION PURPOSE

Coordinates and facilitates discharge planning in collaboration with an interdisciplinary team to ensure a smooth transition from hospitalization to community-based care.  The Acute Care Discharge Planner/Social Worker organizes services across provider lines, between people, agencies, and systems to affect optimal patient outcomes, achieve continuity of care, and reduce healthcare costs.  The incumbent serves a point of contact post discharge, following-up with patients and providers as needed, to ensure appropriate and timely access to care and services.  This position works in conjunction with Utilization Review to determine appropriateness of admission, level of care, and continued stay.  

RESPONSIBILITY

The Discharge Planning Case Management is a bargaining unit employee who reports to the Director of Acute Care Services.  This position does not have supervisory control.  

CONTACTS

The DCS is in frequent communication with the Director of Acute Care Services, the professional staff, department managers, employed and contract staff members, clients and patients of SPH, State and Federal agency representatives, and the general public. This individual must project a professional, positive image of the hospital when communicating with these contacts.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

The position of Acute Care Discharge Planner/Social Worker requires a combination of education and experience as listed below:

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the State of Alaska and at least one year of discharge planning and case management experience in a hospital setting.
• Licensed Masters of Social Work (LMSW) licensed in the State of Alaska and at least two years of discharge planning and case management experience in a hospital setting.
• Licensed Bachelors of Social Work (LBSW) licensed in the State of Alaska and at least two years of discharge planning and case management experience in a hospital setting.

ENVIRONMENT:
South Peninsula Hospital (SPH) is a combined 22-bed critical access hospital and 28-bed long term care facility located at the southern end of the Kenai Peninsula. The position requires walking, standing for extended periods, stooping and the ability to lift 50 pounds. Persons in this position are exposed to infectious diseases, including blood-borne pathogens, muscle strains, falls, and needle stick injuries. A mechanical lift is available for lifting patients when needed. Generally, physical demands are moderate and most work is performed inside. Working hours may fluctuate based on scheduling needs and patient census.