Discharge Planner

Position Summary

Overview:

The Discharge Planner reports directly to the Discharge Administrator and is responsible for the initial assessments, discharge planning, and additional case management duties for assigned patients. The incumbent works in conjunction with other members of the Mental Health and Medical team to coordinate discharge needs.

Duties

• Collaborates with outside agencies (e.g., community providers, other correctional facilities, service coordination unit, community treatment teams) to ensure continuity of care.
• Works directly with the Discharge and Release Center to ensure a smooth transition to the community.
• Performs discharge planning as a member of a multidisciplinary case management team from the healthcare and corrections side.
• Reviews all data relating to initial intake assessments.
• Advocates on behalf of the patient to maximize available services and interpret treatment plans related to their care.
• Affords assistance in pre-release planning regarding benefits, housing, and aftercare appointments.
• Coordinates justice-related services applications and referrals.
• Maintains up-to-date information in electronic health records, including pre-release information pertaining to program involvement.
• Communicates with Behavioral Health Staff about pending discharges for the day.
• Sends letters of incarceration for Social Security upon release.
• Facilitates the discharge process with jail staff.
• Performs other duties as required or requested.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of:
• Correctional security policies.
• Pennsylvania Title 37 regulations.
• Laws and legislation (e.g., American Correctional Association – ACA and National Commission on Correctional Health Care – NCCHC).
• Jail and community agencies, programs, services, and resources.
• Mental health services.
• Discharge planning best practices.
• Skill in:
• Microsoft Office products including Excel.
• Electronic Health Care Records.
• Ability to:
• Plan, organize, and participate in cross-disciplinary activities.
• Work with vulnerable adults, children, and families.
• Handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Show excellent interpersonal skills and show respect to others.
• Develop new practices and adjust as the new process takes hold.
• Maintain strict confidentiality.
• Solve problems creatively.
• Show exceptional organizational skills.
• Communicate effectively with others in the Jail, including staff and incarcerated individuals who are about to be released.
• Learn and utilize County computer systems.

Minimum Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent AND three (3) years of experience working in the social services or behavioral health field.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, or experience is acceptable.
• Must have CPR certification upon hire.
• Act 33/34 FBI clearances are required prior to appointment at the cost of the applicant.

Residency and Veterans' Preference

Residency: Not required to live in Allegheny County
Veterans' Preference: Will be awarded to eligible candidates.

Equal Opportunity Employer

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER - M/F/V/D