Location: Chicago,IL, USA
JOB DESCRIPTIONTITLE: Central Intake Clinical SpecialistREPORTS TO: Director of Central Intake & Census Development, VP of Network Services. I. JOB SUMMARYThe Central Intake Clinical Specialist is responsible clinically reviewing patient referrals in a timely manner and responding promptly to the referral source with an acceptance or denial. Primary referral sources are hospitals; however, the Central Intake Clinical Specialist may also be assigned referrals to review from other sources, including but not limited to home health services, assisted living facilities, independent living facilities and other skilled nursing facilities. Focus of this role is on census development by expediting timeliness of acceptances and by increasing volume of acceptances, thereby ensuring admission growth. Responsibilities also include creating a brief summary of pertinent patient data and sharing with key personnel from the receiving facility, maintaining a daily log of patients reviewed, tracking of any denial reasons, proactively notifying appropriate staff if referral sources are waiting for a response to ensure referral source satisfaction, and actively reaching out to discuss challenging cases in an effort to meet patient needs whenever possible in order to secure admissions. This role is also encouraged to identify gaps or barriers in the admission process and make recommendations as appropriate. The Central Intake Clinical Specialists will identify, support, and grow key relationships with Alden Network referral partners through consistent timely follow up electronically, by phone or face to face. Most desirable candidates will possess either an RN or LPN license; however, non-licensed healthcare professional with a strong background in skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities are also possible. The Clinical Intake Specialist might work remotely, on-site, or a combination of the two. Occasional in-person meetings and attendance at events to represent the Central Intake Department will be required. This role will be primarily working via computer, so computing knowledge as well as the ability to self-motivate and work independently are essential. Professional written communication skills are a must, and a marketing or business development background is a plus. II. QUALIFICATIONSA. Nurse (LPN or RN) preferred.B. Must have at least one year of experience in long term and/or acute careC. Must have the ability to complete clinical reviews and determine the appropriate placement.in determining placement and care needs for referrals.D. Must possess the ability to collaborate with other clinicians E. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and other technological programs.F. Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.C. Must be able to read, write and speak the English language in an understandable manner.D. Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.E. Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with customers, family members, visitors, personnel, government agencies/personnel, and the general public.F. Must be personable, enthusiastic, and resourceful.III. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTSA. Must be able to move intermittently throughout the work day.B. Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.C. Must be in good general health and demonstrate emotional stability.D. Must be able to relate to and work with the ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset, and at times hostile people.E. Passion to create a customer- centric experience for the Alden NetworkF. Must be willing to work and win as a team. G. Perform other related duties as assigned.IV. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSA. Timely review and respond to new incoming hospital referrals. Determination of medical complexities of referrals and most appropriate placementB. Collaborate with facilities on the medical, physical and equipment needs of accepted referralsC. Track and manage all referrals in active time utilizing logs provided.D. Communicate with referral sources on the acceptance, or reason for denial of referrals. E. Communicate with facility staff to ensure accuracy of information relating to bed availability, resident/patient needs, isolation and/or transfers to hospitals. F. Develop positive partnerships with referral providers, Alden Facilities, Home Care business as well with their marketing personnel. G. Proactively participate in continuous improvement activities for the Alden Network. H. Ensure responses to referrals 24/7 through coordination of other intake partners and facility admissions personnel