What are the responsibilities and job description for the RN, Discharge Clinical Coordinator position at Beacon Health (Memorial Hospital & Health System)?
- South Bend, IN
- Medical Staff Office
- Memorial Hospital - South Bend
- Full-time - Day - 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Req #: 212485 Posted: October 22, 2025-->
Summary
The RN, Registered Nurse Discharge Coordinator, plays a critical role in ensuring timely, safe, and well-organized patient discharges from Beacon’s acute care hospitals. This position serves as a key liaison among hospitalists, specialists, nursing, case management, ancillary departments, and patients. The nurse ensures that when a patient is medically stable and ready for discharge, all clinical, logistical, and communication barriers are resolved—supporting a seamless transition to outpatient care.
Mission, Values, and Service Goals
Mission: We deliver outstanding care, inspire health, and connect with heart.
Values: Trust. Respect. Integrity. Compassion.
Service Goals: Personally connect. Keep everyone informed. Be on their team.
Key Responsibilities
Discharge Planning & Coordination
Collaborates daily with the H ospitalist Team to identify estimated discharge dates and address clinical or disposition barriers.
Partners with nursing, case management, and ancillary departments to ensure coordinated discharge planning.
Meets with patients and families to prepare for discharge—arranging follow-up appointments, securing specialist instructions, and assisting with post-acute placement paperwork.
Keeps patients and families informed about discharge timing, medication changes, and care instructions.
Connects patients with a primary care provider if they do not have one, ensuring appropriate post-discharge follow-up.
Refers patients with chronic conditions to Care Coordination when ongoing support is needed.
Reviews patient records to confirm completeness and that all medical concerns are addressed prior to discharge.
Communicates complex discharge needs to the patient’s primary care physician when there is a high risk of readmission.
Performs post-discharge follow-up calls to confirm smooth transitions and address emerging needs.
Assists with patient education related to discharge medications and care instructions.
Quality Improvement & Collaboration
Collects and analyzes data related to length of stay, discharge barriers, and utilization trends , preparing reports for leadership.
Identifies process improvements and presents recommendations to relevant committees to enhance the quality of patient care.
Participates in hospitalist department meetings , providing updates on discharge outcomes and improvement efforts.
Contributes to organizational efforts to close gaps in care and improve patient transitions.
Professional and Organizational Responsibilities
Actively participates in department meetings and completes all required education, competencies, and health requirements on time.
Maintains RN licensure and required certifications (e.g., BCLS/CPR) in good standing.
Adheres to infection control, safety, and regulatory compliance standards.
Demonstrates flexibility in schedule and is available to work overtime or alternate shifts when needed.
Embodies The Beacon Way by:
Leveraging innovation everywhere.
Cultivating human talent.
Embracing performance improvement.
Building greatness through accountability.
Using information to improve and advance.
Communicating clearly and continuously.
Education & Experience
Graduate of an accredited nursing program with a current RN license in the State of Indiana.
Experience in discharge planning, case management, or leadership in an acute care or similar healthcare setting preferred.
Knowledge & Skills
Strong knowledge of clinical care practices and discharge processes.
Excellent communication, counseling, and interpersonal skills for working with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
Demonstrated problem-solving, critical thinking, and organizational abilities.
Effective time management skills; able to prioritize independently and work efficiently under pressure.
Proficiency in relevant healthcare technology systems and documentation platforms.
Working Conditions & Physical Demands
Works in fast-paced clinical settings with varying daily demands.
May require travel between hospital sites and referral locations.
Must be able to perform the physical duties of the role, including standing, walking, and assisting with patient needs as required.