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Discharge Planner Utilization Review Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assists the Utilization Management Department with all utilization activities as requested and ... Safety (15% of performance review) * Strives to create a safe, healing environment for patients and ...

Assists the Utilization Management Department with all utilization activities as requested and ... Safety (15% of performance review) * Strives to create a safe, healing environment for patients and ...

Discharge Planner

National City, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $26.18/hr

Maintains and coordinates Medicaid state submission forms for presentation to on-site reviewer and ... Knowledge of Discharge Planning/ Utilization Management / Case Management terminology and functions ...

Discharge Planner

National City, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $26.18/hr

Maintains and coordinates Medicaid state submission forms for presentation to on-site reviewer and ... Knowledge of Discharge Planning/ Utilization Management / Case Management terminology and functions ...

The Discharge Planner provides individualized assessment and case management, supportive counseling ... Provides assistance and total support to the Utilization Review Director and Social Services team ...

FLSA Status Exempt Job Role Summary The Discharge Planner - RN is responsible for managing each ... Utilization Review: * Conducts/ provides oversight of the initial admission review, utilizing ...

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Discharge Planner Utilization Review information

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$14

$32

$59

How much do discharge planner utilization review jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for discharge planner utilization review in the United States is $32.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $39.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a discharge planner?

To become a discharge planner, typically a healthcare professional such as a social worker, nurse, or case manager, needs to obtain relevant education like a bachelor's or master's degree in social work, nursing, or healthcare administration. Certification or licensure may be required depending on the state or employer, and experience in patient care or healthcare coordination is often preferred. Strong communication, organizational skills, and knowledge of healthcare systems are essential for this role.

How does a Discharge Planner Utilization Review professional collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure effective patient transitions?

Discharge Planner Utilization Review professionals work closely with physicians, nurses, social workers, and insurance representatives to coordinate safe and timely patient discharges. They facilitate communication between team members, assess patients' post-hospital needs, and help secure appropriate resources such as home health care or rehabilitation services. Their role is vital in preventing readmissions by ensuring that all aspects of a patient's care plan are addressed and that transitions occur smoothly. Regular interdisciplinary meetings and case conferences are common practices to align on patient care goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Discharge Planner Utilization Review, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Discharge Planner Utilization Review professional, you generally need a clinical background such as RN or social worker licensure, strong knowledge of discharge planning protocols, and familiarity with healthcare regulations. Proficiency with electronic health records (EHRs), case management software, and utilization review tools is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help in coordinating care and advocating for patient needs. These competencies ensure safe, efficient patient transitions and compliance with healthcare policies, ultimately optimizing patient outcomes and resource use.

What are Discharge Planner Utilization Review professionals?

Discharge Planner Utilization Review professionals are healthcare workers who coordinate patient discharges from hospitals or medical facilities while ensuring appropriate utilization of healthcare services. They assess patients' continuing care needs, develop safe discharge plans, and review the necessity and efficiency of the care provided. Their role bridges clinical care and administrative requirements, helping to prevent unnecessary hospital stays and ensuring patients transition smoothly to home or other care settings. These professionals often work closely with physicians, nurses, social workers, and insurance companies to promote optimal patient outcomes and cost-effective healthcare.

What is the difference between Discharge Planner Utilization Review vs Discharge Planner?

AspectDischarge Planner Utilization ReviewDischarge Planner
Primary RoleEvaluates medical necessity and appropriateness of patient discharges for insurance and healthcare complianceCoordinates patient discharges, ensures proper placement, and communicates with healthcare teams
CredentialsTypically requires a social work, nursing, or healthcare background with certification in utilization reviewUsually requires social work or nursing credentials, with focus on discharge planning
Work EnvironmentHospitals, insurance companies, or healthcare facilities involved in utilization reviewHospitals, rehab centers, or skilled nursing facilities

While both roles involve discharge processes, Discharge Planner Utilization Review focuses on assessing medical necessity for insurance purposes, whereas Discharge Planner manages patient discharge logistics and coordination. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in healthcare settings.

More about Discharge Planner Utilization Review jobs
What cities are hiring for Discharge Planner Utilization Review jobs? Cities with the most Discharge Planner Utilization Review job openings:
What states have the most Discharge Planner Utilization Review jobs? States with the most job openings for Discharge Planner Utilization Review jobs include:
Infographic showing various Discharge Planner Utilization Review job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 14% Full Time, and 85% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,853 per year, or $32.6 per hour.
Discharge Planner

Discharge Planner

SUN Behavioral Houston

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:

Responsible for the coordination and implementation of case management strategies pursuant to the discharge process. To provide efficient, quality discharge planning services to patients and their families from initial intake to discharge; to serve as a member of interdisciplinary team supporting the organization's treatment program and philosophy and assure the deliverance of quality treatment to patients and their families. Participates in performance improvement activities. Attends 80% of staff meetings. Coordinates care for patient through communication with Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Services, Nursing, and Intake Department. Attends treatment team meetings as scheduled.

Position Responsibilities:

Clinical / Technical Skills (40% of performance review)

  • Evaluates patient care plans on a regular basis and updates the care plans when needed.
  • Faxes aftercare plans to referrals within 24 hours of discharge.
  • Plans patient care in collaboration with all members of the healthcare team.
  • Consults with other departments, as appropriate, to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities. Collaborates with other departments to identify operational problems and develop solutions/resolution.
  • Works with all members of the healthcare team to assure a collaborative approach is maintained in care and treatment of the patient.
  • Works closely with social worker to integrate psychosocial management of patient/family needs.
  • Attends treatment team daily, coordinates care plan with patient, MD, therapist and RN.
  • Initial discharge plan formulated and noted on psychosocial assessment form within 72 hours of admission
  • Assists the Utilization Management Department with all utilization activities as requested and directed.
  • Participates in education on and implementation of clinical guidelines and protocols.
  • Documentation meets current standards and policies.
  • Maintains optimal continuum of patient care through efficient and effective planning, assessing and coordination of healthcare services.
  • Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.
  • Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments.
  • Develops and coordinates an individualized discharge plan for the patient by utilizing treatment team and written chart information to determine the patient's aftercare needs.
  • Accesses by phone or written correspondence family or community resources such as nursing homes, group homes, or private mental health practitioners to meet patients' aftercare needs.
  • Coordinates with team members to incorporate discharge planning in all phases of patient care by discussing written progress notes from charts and communicating any state or local agency legal requirement for referral/discharge planning with the interdisciplinary team.
  • Documents treatment provided to patient in medical record.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Safety (15% of performance review)

  • Strives to create a safe, healing environment for patients and family members
  • Follows all safety rules while on the job.
  • Reports near misses, as well as errors and accidents promptly.
  • Corrects minor safety hazards.
  • Communicates with peers and management regarding any hazards identified in the workplace.
  • Attends all required safety programs and understands responsibilities related to general, department, and job specific safety.
  • Participates in quality projects, as assigned, and supports quality initiatives.
  • Supports and maintains a culture of safety and quality.

Teamwork (15% of performance review)

  • Works well with others in a spirit of teamwork and cooperation.
  • Responds willingly to colleagues and serves as an active part of the hospital team.
  • Builds collaborative relationships with patients, families, staff, and physicians.
  • The ability to retrieve, communicate, and present data and information both verbally and in writing as required
  • Demonstrates listening skills and the ability to express or exchange ideas by means of the spoken and written word.
  • Demonstrates adequate skills in all forms of communication.
  • Adheres to the Standards of Behavior

Integrity (15% of performance review)

  • Strives to always do the right thing for the patient, coworkers, and the hospital
  • Adheres to established standards, policies, procedures, protocols, and laws.
  • Applies the Mission and Values of SUN Behavioral Health to personal practice and commits to service excellence.
  • Supports and demonstrates fiscal responsibility through supply usage, ordering of supplies, and conservation of facility resources.
  • Completes required trainings within defined time periods, as established by job description, policies, or hospital leadership
  • Exemplifies professionalism through good attendance and positive attitude, at all times.
  • Maintains confidentiality of patient and staff information, following HIPAA and other privacy laws.
  • Ensures proper documentation in all position activities, following federal and state guidelines.

Compassion (15% of performance review)

  • Demonstrates accountability for ensuring the highest quality patient care for patients.
  • Willingness to be accepting of those in need, and to extend a helping hand
  • Desire to go above and beyond for others
  • Understanding and accepting of cultural diversity and differences

Education:

  • Required: Bachelors degree in a behavioral health field or business administration. CPR and hospital-selected de-escalation technique certification.
  • Preferred: LPN, LVN, LCSW, LMSW, LPC, or RN preferred
  • Maintains education and development appropriate for position
  • May substitute experience for education

Experience:

  • Required: One or more years acute hospital, home health, hospice, inpatient mental facility experience required (as applicable).
  • Preferred: Prior discharge planning experience preferred.