Patient Key Worker

Job overview

The Patient Key Worker role will primarily focus on providing a smooth discharge plan for each patient. The primary function of this role is to ensure patients and relatives are aware of the plan both in terms of interventions and expectations on discharge. Also, to highlight to all concerned, any problems that may become apparent that could affect a delay in discharge.

The post holder will facilitate the discharge pathway from admission, liaise with the wider multidisciplinary team to ensure timely interventions are addressed along said pathway, and provide daily update to the ward sister and complex discharge team.

The post holder will also act as a conduit between the ward-based team and the discharge teams and in doing so will provide an extension of the discharge team based within the ward environment. The post holder will also be expected to liaise and work alongside the ward teams and Complex Discharge team, to assist and support the patients journey through the organisation ensuring good communication with patients and families.

Main duties of the job

• To ensure quality care and support service which enables patients to be supported throughout their care pathway whilst promoting independence and protecting choice, dignity, privacy, and safety.
• To work in support of qualified staff and allied healthcare professionals in the assessment, planning, implementing and evaluation of the discharge pathways in conjunction with the complex discharge team.
• To assist the wider MDT in facilitating a safe and timely transfer out of the hospital environment for all ward patients.
• To ensure early conversations are initiated with the patient/carer to ensure the following:Patient and/or carer is aware of the expected date of discharge and is kept informed when this changes.
• Identifying and escalating any barriers to the patient returning home/ care home on the expected date of discharge.
• Liaise with care agencies/ care homes to clarify what the patients’ needs and capabilities were prior to admission.
• To support with the patients and families expectations about discharge destinations within the capability of partner agencies.
• Attend MDT and update notes and systems as appropriate.
• Document verbal instructions and discussions in regard to patient discharge pathway
• Seek advice from complex discharge team if a complex need is identified.
• To communicate effectively at all times within the team, other health care professionals and with the patient family, carers/visitors.
• Ability to prioritise workload daily and adapt as needed.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Our DCHFT Job Description and Person Specification (attached) tells you all about this role, what to expect and what is needed to succeed. When completing your application please make sure to tell us how your experience and skills fit the person specification.

Please contact us at [email protected] if you are unable to view or download the attachment.

For all our roles, we are looking for staff who hold our Trust Values of Integrity, Respect Teamwork and Excellence, and who are passionate about providing the best patient care. To read more about our Trust and our Values search Dorset County Hospital online.