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.
Working for our organisation
At DCHFT, we pride ourselves on the care we provide for our patients, and on the culture, we are creating for our staff. We work hard to create a fair, inclusive environment for our staff.
Our Mission is to work in partnership to provide high quality, compassionate services and to nurture an environment where people can be at their best. Our vision is healthier lives, empowered citizens, thriving communities.
We are a Trust that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from people in all under-represented groups.
We understand that some applicants may choose to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in preparing their application materials. While this is not discouraged, we kindly remind candidates that all submissions must be truthful and accurately reflect your own experiences and suitability for this role.
Personal integrity and authenticity are central to our recruitment process. We value honesty and appreciate applications that are genuine and representative of the individual behind them.
Right to Work in the UK: This role is not available for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must already have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are unable to support visa applications for this post in line with UKVI regulations.
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.
Person specification
Education, Qualifications & Training
Essential criteria
* GCSE level or equivalent, including English at Grade C or above
Desirable criteria
* NVQ Level 2/3 in a relevant subject
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Essential criteria
* Understanding of the role of a Patient Key Worker
* Experience/understanding of ward-based care.
Skills and Abilities
Essential criteria
* Evidence of good communication skills
* Demonstrate an understanding of confidentiality
* Evidence of ability to maintain accurate and legible documentation
* The ability to work autonomously using initiative and escalating appropriately
* The ability to take direction from both the ward and discharge team to work proactively in facilitating a safe transition plan for individual patients
Desirable criteria
* Ability to work as part of a team
* Evidence of ability to maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, patients and visitors
Our Mission
Outstanding care for people in ways which matter to them.
Our Vision
Dorset County Hospital, working with our health and social care partners, will be at the heart of improving the well-being of our communities.
Our Values
Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, Excellence
We are a Trust that celebrates diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We would welcome applications from people in all under-represented groups.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT INFORMATION CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Please read the job description and person specification carefully to ensure your application reflects the knowledge, skills and experience required.
The closing date/interview date is subject to amendment; this vacancy may therefore expire at short notice, so we recommend that you submit an application at your earliest convenience. We reserve the right to close any vacancies without notice.
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted via email; therefore it is important that you check your personal email account regularly.
Unfortunately we are unable to respond to every application; if we do not contact you within 4 weeks of the closing date, please be advised that you not have been shortlisted on this occasion.
You can contact us on 01305 254655 to find out whether you have been shortlisted or if you would like feedback.