The Clinical Decision “Observation” Unit (CDU) is a designated, 16-bed medical unit where adult patients in need of additional monitoring, diagnostic evaluation and/or treatment may be monitored while a clinical decision is being made whether to admit the patient for hospitalization or discharge the patient for further care.

The unit provides an alternative to discharge, or inpatient hospital admission for the patient who may benefit from an extended observation period; ideally less than twenty four hours. The unit was created to reduce hospitalization and health care cost for patients, provide a more comfortable area for medical care while the patient is in an observation setting and deliver outstanding patient care to better serve our patients.

Essential Job Functions
• Schedules provider appointments, diagnostic tests, procedures, and treatments.
• Prepares and maintains daily appointment templates and/or patient records in One Connect.
• Communicates all pertinent information to families, physicians, team members, and other patient care areas.
• Prepares patient materials and documentation according to established procedures.
• Collects co-payments and validates patient insurance and demographics. 
• Updates payment and patient information Reconciles One Connect cash drawer on a daily basis.
• Performs validation of the Medicare Secondary Payer Questionnaire (MSPQ).
• Ensures coordination of benefits and assignment of Hospital Account Record (HAR). 
• Follows standard operating procedures for institution and center.
• Protects the security and confidentiality of patient information at all times. 
• Other duties as assigned.