Hire Patient Care Coordinators
A patient care coordinator is a trained healthcare professional that specializes in geriatric care or coordinated care for the disabled. They design, monitor, and coordinate treatment plans for patients, educate them about their affliction, connect them with health care providers, and evaluate their progress. The average salary of a patient care coordinator in the US is $32,502 a year. Over the next 10 years, analysts expect that there will be 50,000 more job opportunities in the US alone as patient care coordinators are needed in greater numbers.
Patient Care Coordinator Responsibilities
Patient care coordinators are responsible for educating patients and their families regarding their care plan. They provide patients with information related to treatments, procedures, medications, and continuing care requirements in coordination with direct care providers. They develop interdisciplinary care plans specific to patients as well as other case management tools, engage in meetings with other care providers for coordinating information and care requirements, smooth the progression of the care program, and encourage peer support. Patient care coordinators are required to complete patient rounds to monitor and document the delivery of care, identify gaps in the progress, take measures to correct deviations in the care plan, and review the care plan with patients as well as the direct care providers. They also report issues related to both personnel and performance to the unit manager and review staff regarding variances from the care plan or transfer/discharge plan. Their roles involve regular interactions and coordination with relevant departments to arrange and expedite scheduling and completion of tests, procedures, and consultations. They also make sure that hospital and legal requirements as well as the nurse practice act and other governing regulations are followed. Besides, they also make sure that co-workers and patients follow policies and procedures to prevent the spread of bloodborne or airborne diseases.
Patient Care Coordinator Skills and Qualifications
Applicants are generally required to hold a bachelor’s degree, while some hiring managers also prefer a master’s degree. Prior experience as a staff nurse or administrative assistant or even in a customer service role can give an edge to candidates. Also, applicants should be able to analyze data and reports and navigate database management. In addition to these hard skills, soft skills required include: good verbal communication skills, a persuasive and firm approach, an ability to build relationships and contribute to team effort, finesse in resolving conflicts, and the ability to maintain confidentiality.
