Case Mgr/Discharge Planner

Case Manager/Discharge Planner

Department: Long Beach, CA  
Schedule: 8-hour shifts

• AM:8:00 AM –4:30 PM

Pay Range: $23-25/hour

Position Summary

Ocean View Case Managers play crucial roles in recovery for each of their patients. Under the supervision of the Director of Social Work, Case Managers provide case management services and discharge planning to assigned Patients and their families. The position coordinates treatment with other agencies as well as client’s friends and family support networks. Assesses Patient’s physical and mental needs and makes frequent adjustments to improve patient outcomes. The Case Manager/Discharge Planner is responsible for activities including discharge planning, transitioning from hospital setting, housing placement, and providing support to social work staff.

Make a difference by providing quality care alongside us at Ocean View!

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate discharge plans closely with the patient's treatment team.
• Make accurate referrals for patient placement, case management, and aftercare services.
• Bridge the gap between the hospital and referral sources to ensure smooth care transitions.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of available community resources.
• Work with intake staff to manage benefits, admissions, and discharge steps.
• Partner with social services to make sure patient care is fully aligned.
• Collaborate with physicians to ensure patients experience continuous care.
• Join treatment team meetings and offer helpful feedback on patient plans.
• Write clear intake notes for new patients.
• Complete daily progress notes and weekly summary notes on time.
• Handle other paperwork or documentation tasks as assigned.
• Talk with families and communities about admissions, discharges, and next steps
• While primarily assigned to the inpatient unit, may be required to support the Structured Outpatient Services Program (IOP/PHP) based on census fluctuations and departmental needs

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in psychology, human services, social work, or counseling from an accredited college or university is required. 
• Two (2) or more years direct service experience with severely and persistently mentally ill Patients in inpatient or outpatient health care setting (internship and/or practicum time may be substituted). 
• Demonstrates competencies and knowledge in mental/behavioral health. 
• Ability to speak, read, and write legibly in English.
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm, composed, and effective in high-stress or crisis situations.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills across disciplines and departments.
• Proficiency in the use of computers and standard keyboard functions for data entry and electronic documentation.

• Current CPR, BLS, and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain within90 days of employment 

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working within a mental health-focused setting. 
• Demonstrated ability to visually and audibly assess the mental status and psychosocial needs of severely mentally ill Patients. 
• Ability to interact and communicate both verbally and in writing with seriously and persistently mentally ill Patients, other staff members, physicians and the public (including vendors). 
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a behavioral health, healthcare, or related human-services setting (role-specific equivalent acceptable)
• Prior experience using Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems for documentation and coordination of care
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Teams) and/or cloud-based communication platforms (e.g., Slack, Zoom)
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, or other languages commonly spoken by the patient population
• Crisis prevention/intervention training (e.g.,HWC,CPI, PMAB) or de-escalation certification
• Knowledge of HIPAA, Title 22, and other applicable regulatory standards
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles and culturally responsive practices
• Leadership experience or demonstrated capacity to mentor others (if applicable to the role)

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for qualifying employees
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Supportive, team-oriented work environment
• Opportunities for professional growth, training, and advancement within the organization

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Frequent walking, standing, sitting, twisting, and bending are required.
• Must possess adequate auditory capacity to communicate clearly and follow verbal instructions.
• May be required to lift and carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to operate standard office and/or clinical equipment requiring repetitive hand movements, manual dexterity, and fine finger coordination, including the use of computers, telephones, and related devices.

Special Conditions

• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of Live Scan fingerprinting, background check clearance, and verification of required licenses, certifications, and education
• Satisfactory completion of professional reference checks
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States; Ocean View does not provide visa sponsorship for certain roles unless otherwise specified
• Compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), The Joint Commission, and HIPAA standards
• Compliance with all required health screenings and immunizations in accordance with regulatory guidelines and facility policy, which may include tuberculosis (TB) testing, N95 fit testing, annual trainings, and proof of vaccination for certain communicable diseases
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, or variable shifts as needed, based on operational or patient care needs
• Demonstrate understanding and be compliant with Patients' Rights, LPS Statutes, and Seclusion and Restraint Protocols.