Position Objective:

Primary responsibility is to function in a support role for Mental Health and Psychiatric placements in the Emergency Department and inpatient units. The Placement Specialist provides direct support to the discharge planning process for any patient requiring placement in another facility including obtaining authorization. The Placement Specialist facilitates the exchange of clinical information and authorizations between the hospital and psychiatric facilities.

Essential Job Duties:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

1. Follow direction of Mental Health Clinicians and/or psychiatrists to arrange for and facilitate timely placement, acceptance and transport of patients. Communicates plan and financial liabilities to patient/family if directed to do so.Troubleshoot problems to avoid delays in transfer or discharge.
2. Obtains authorization for services. Informs Mental Health Clinicians and/or Psychiatrists of authorization status and any requests for additional information from receiving facilities.
3. Fax or electronically transfer patient demographic and clinical information to facilities as required and to other agencies as requested by Mental Health Clinicians or Psychiatrists. Verifies facility received information. Prepares and distributes facility transfer packets as appropriate insuring that all paperwork is completed per standard. Identifies any missing documentation and initiates appropriate follow-up to obtain information.
4. Arranges for transportation for patients as requested. Arrange taxi transportation via security as needed. Notifies facility and unit staff of transfer arrangements as requested.
5. Participates in Mental Health process improvement activities. Identifies opportunities for improvement and recommend solutions. Participates in and facilitates data collection.

Educational/Experience Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• One year related work experience

RequiredLicense/Certifications:

Working Conditions, Equipment, Physical Demands: