Health Unit Coordinator - 50%

About the role

The Health Unit Coordinator (HUC) supports the daily operations of a locked psychiatric hospital unit by coordinating referrals, facilitating admissions and discharges, maintaining accurate patient records, and serving as the primary communication and reception point for the unit.

Responsibilities

• Receive and manage referral calls from crisis centers, hospitals, and other facilities.
• Review medical and psychiatric clearance documentation for completeness and communicate with nursing staff, physicians, and referring agencies to support admission decisions.
• Prepare admission materials, create patient charts, and assist with required documentation.
• Serve as the unit's primary receptionist, answering phones, greeting visitors, and maintaining a calm, professional presence.
• Control access to the locked unit in accordance with safety protocols.
• Provide trauma-informed, respectful communication with patients, families, and staff.
• Maintain accurate and complete patient charts throughout hospitalization.
• Support a safe and therapeutic environment by following all unit safety procedures.
• Respond to unit emergencies (e.g., behavioral emergencies, codes) according to facility protocol.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• One to two years of healthcare, behavioral health, or clerical experience preferred.
• Prior experience as a Health Unit Coordinator, Unit Clerk, or similar role preferred.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage interruptions, and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and effective during emergencies, high stress situations, or interactions with individuals experiencing psychiatric distress.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with physicians, nursing staff, social workers, crisis teams, and administrative personnel.
• Ability to learn and apply trauma informed communication principles.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.