| Discharge Planner | Case Manager |
|---|
| Focuses on planning patient discharge from healthcare facilities | Coordinates ongoing patient care and services |
| Typically works in hospitals, rehab centers, or nursing homes | Works across healthcare, social services, and community settings |
| Requires certifications like social work or healthcare-related credentials | Often requires social work, nursing, or healthcare certifications |
Discharge Planners primarily focus on preparing patients for discharge from healthcare facilities, ensuring they have appropriate resources and follow-up care. Case Managers have a broader role, coordinating ongoing care and services across various settings. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, Discharge Planners specialize in hospital discharge processes, whereas Case Managers handle comprehensive patient care management.