What are the responsibilities and job description for the Hospice Director of Nursing position at Ozark Physical Medicine Center for Operations?
Job Title: Hospice Director of Nursing (DON)
Department: Hospice
Reports To: Executive Director / Administrator
FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports To: Executive Director / Administrator
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Summary
The Hospice Director of Nursing (DON) oversees all clinical operations within the hospice program, ensuring high-quality patient care that is compliant with federal/state regulations and agency policies. This role provides leadership, supervision, and guidance to the nursing and clinical team, ensuring compassionate, patient-centered care for individuals at end of life. The DON plays a key role in planning, implementing, and evaluating clinical services and maintaining survey readiness.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Leadership & Clinical Oversight
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Provide strategic leadership and daily oversight to the hospice nursing and clinical staff.
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Ensure all patient care is delivered according to the hospice plan of care, regulatory requirements, and agency standards.
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Oversee admission, recertification, discharge, and case management processes.
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Monitor clinical documentation for accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
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Participate in and lead the Interdisciplinary Group (IDG) meetings to coordinate patient care.
Staff Management
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Recruit, hire, train, evaluate, and mentor hospice clinical staff including RNs, LPNs, CNAs, social workers, chaplains, and other support staff.
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Provide ongoing staff education, performance evaluations, and corrective action when needed.
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Ensure staffing levels meet patient needs and regulatory standards.
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Promote a positive, supportive team environment.
Compliance & Quality Assurance
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Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local hospice regulations (Medicare Conditions of Participation).
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Conduct audits, chart reviews, and quality improvement activities.
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Ensure survey readiness and correct any deficiencies identified in audits or inspections.
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Maintain policies and procedures related to clinical operations.
Patient & Family Care
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Oversee the development and review of individualized plans of care.
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Ensure that patients and families receive compassionate education, communication, and support throughout the hospice journey.
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Respond to emergencies, complaints, and issues involving patient care.
Operational Responsibilities
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Serve as a liaison with physicians, referral sources, and community partners.
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Participate in on-call rotation as needed.
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Attend leadership meetings and contribute to organizational planning.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
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Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of Missouri, in good standing.
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Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN) preferred.
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Minimum 3–5 years of nursing experience, with at least 2 years in hospice, palliative care, or home health.
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Previous leadership or supervisory experience required.
Skills & Abilities
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Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
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Excellent clinical assessment and critical-thinking abilities.
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Ability to handle sensitive and emotional situations with compassion.
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Knowledge of Medicare/Medicaid hospice regulations.
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Proficiency in EMR systems and documentation.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to travel to patient homes and facilities as needed.
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Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
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Prolonged standing, walking, or sitting may be required.
Work Environment
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Work is performed in patient homes, facilities, and office settings.
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Exposure to bodily fluids, diseases, and conditions common to a clinical environment.