Position Summary
This position coordinates the intake and admission process for new hospice patients, ensuring a smooth transition from referral to admission. The role evaluates patient eligibility, collaborates with providers, patients, and families, and provides information about hospice services. It also supports admission assessments and planning, and coordinates the handoff of new patients to the appropriate RN Patient Care Coordinator and Social Worker.
Position Qualifications
Education and Training
- Required: Diploma or certificate from an accredited Practical Nursing program, or an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing
- Preferred: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from an accredited program
Experience
- Preferred: 2+ years of experience working as an LPN or RN in a healthcare or hospice setting
License or Certification
- Required: Active and unrestricted LPN or RN license in Minnesota
- Required: Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) for healthcare providers (must be obtained within 3 months of hire if not current)
- Required: Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
Position Duties and Responsibilities
Initial Assessments and Eligibility Determination
- Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients referred to hospice care, evaluating clinical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs
- Determine eligibility and appropriateness for hospice services in collaboration with the patient’s physician, hospice medical director, and LCD guidelines
- Assess patient understanding of illness, treatment options, and goals of care
- Provide education and support to facilitate informed decision-making and advance care planning
Admissions Coordination and Communication
- Complete all steps required for patient admission, collaborating with interdisciplinary team (IDT) members to develop the plan of care
- Serve as the primary point of contact for patients, families, and referral sources
- Coordinate the admissions process and provide guidance throughout
- Collaborate with physicians, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure timely admissions
- Educate patients and families on hospice philosophy, services, and expectations
Patient Assessment and Evaluation
- Gather medical history, treatment preferences, and advance directives
- Collaborate with physicians and healthcare providers to obtain necessary documentation
Patient and Family Advocacy
- Advocate for patient and family needs and preferences
- Provide emotional support and education related to end-of-life care
- Address questions, concerns, and fears with compassion and clarity
- Collaborate with social workers, chaplains, and support services for comprehensive care
Documentation and Regulatory Compliance
- Maintain accurate, timely documentation in the electronic medical record within 24 hours of contact
- Ensure compliance with Medicare Hospice regulations and Minnesota Standards of Practice
- Deliver care consistent with National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization standards
Professional Development and Training
- Participate in continuing education and professional development activities
- Stay current on best practices and trends in hospice care
Other Duties
- RN only: Participate in on-call and holiday rotation
- Provide coverage for PTO taken by On-Call Nursing staff as needed
Pay: $25.00 - $43.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Continuing education credits
- Dental insurance
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Free parking
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person