ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Discharge Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SUN Behavioral Columbus

Discharge Planner

Columbus, OH · On-site

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 ...

SUN Behavioral Columbus

Discharge Planner

Columbus, OH · On-site

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 ...

Acadia Healthcare

Discharge Planner

Columbus, OH · On-site

Ensure all patient discharge planning documentation is clear, concise and timely. OTHER FUNCTIONS: * Perform other functions and tasks as assigned. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

Maine Medical Center

Discharge Planner

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$61K - $82K/yr

The specific discharge planning needs of each patient shall be identified in collaboration with the unit treatment team and may include patient interviews, record reviews, and participation in ...

New

Knapp Medical Center

Discharge Planner

Weslaco, TX · On-site

Assists with Discharge Planning as assigned by interviewing patients/families and gathering data to develop a safe patient-focused Discharge Plan. Qualifications EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING ...

Knapp Medical Center

Discharge Planner

Weslaco, TX · On-site

Assists with Discharge Planning as assigned by interviewing patients/families and gathering data to develop a safe patient-focused Discharge Plan. Qualifications EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING ...

Prime Healthcare

Discharge Planner

Mission, TX · On-site

Assists with Discharge Planning as assigned by interviewing patients/families and gathering data to develop a safe patient-focused Discharge Plan. EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING Required ...

UHS

DISCHARGE PLANNER

Louisville, KY · On-site

Documents case management contacts in progress notes, communicates with therapists/treatment team about contact and updates on the status of discharge planning. * Works with involved agencies by ...

AHMC Healthcare

Discharge Planner

Riverside, CA · On-site

$23 - $26.30/hr

Functions as part of the multi-disciplinary team in planning appropriate treatment and continuing care plan for patient. Plays an integral part in discharge planning of the patient and assists the ...

Newport Academy

Discharge Planner

Orange, CA · On-site

Amend the recommendation based on other considerations such as finances, insurance, location, etc. * Assist families with discharge planning by explaining placement options, providing specific ...

Newport Academy

Discharge Planner

Orange, CA · On-site

Amend the recommendation based on other considerations such as finances, insurance, location, etc. * Assist families with discharge planning by explaining placement options, providing specific ...

Prime Healthcare

$75 - $95/hr

Assists with Discharge Planning as assigned by interviewing patients/families and gathering data to develop a safe patient-focused Discharge Plan. Qualifications Education and Work Experience

New

Prime Healthcare

Discharge Planner

Denville, NJ · On-site

$75 - $95/hr

Assists with Discharge Planning as assigned by interviewing patients/families and gathering data to develop a safe patient-focused Discharge Plan. Qualifications Education and Work Experience

New

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsHealthcare JobsHospital JobsCare Coordinator JobsDischarge Planning Jobs

Discharge Planning information

See salary details

$14

$32

$59

How much do discharge planning jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for discharge planning 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.

What is discharge planning?

Discharge planning is the process where healthcare professionals work with patients and their families to prepare for a safe and smooth transition from a hospital or healthcare facility to their next destination, such as home or another care setting. It involves assessing the patient's needs, coordinating follow-up care, arranging for necessary services or equipment, and providing education about medications and self-care. Effective discharge planning helps prevent hospital readmissions, ensures continuity of care, and supports the patient’s recovery and independence.

How does a discharge planner typically collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure smooth patient transitions?

Discharge Planners work closely with physicians, nurses, social workers, and insurance coordinators to develop and implement safe and effective discharge plans for patients. This involves regular multidisciplinary meetings, clear communication about patient needs, and coordination of follow-up care, such as arranging home health services or rehabilitation. By acting as a liaison between the patient, their family, and the healthcare team, Discharge Planners help minimize readmissions and ensure continuity of care after hospital discharge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a discharge planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Discharge Planner, you need a background in nursing, social work, or case management, often supported by relevant licensure or certification. Familiarity with healthcare information systems, discharge planning software, and insurance protocols is critical. Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help coordinate care and advocate for patient needs. These skills ensure smooth transitions, reduce readmission rates, and promote positive patient outcomes.

What is the difference between Discharge Planning vs Case Management?

AspectDischarge PlanningCase Management
CredentialsRN, Social Worker, or Healthcare ProfessionalRN, Social Worker, or Healthcare Professional
Work EnvironmentHospitals, Rehabilitation Centers, Skilled Nursing FacilitiesHospitals, Community Agencies, Insurance Companies
Primary FocusPlanning patient discharge, ensuring safe transitionCoordinating ongoing care, resource management
Industry UsageHealthcare, HospitalsHealthcare, Social Services

Discharge Planning and Case Management both involve coordinating patient care, but Discharge Planning specifically focuses on preparing patients for a safe transition from hospital to home or another facility. Case Management has a broader scope, managing ongoing care needs and resources across various settings.

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 healthcare settings is often preferred. Strong communication, organizational skills, and knowledge of healthcare systems are essential for this role.

What does a discharge planning do?

A discharge planner coordinates the process of preparing a patient for leaving a healthcare facility by arranging necessary services, equipment, and follow-up care. They assess patient needs, communicate with healthcare teams and community resources, and ensure a safe transition from hospital to home or another setting. This role often requires knowledge of healthcare policies, insurance, and patient advocacy.
More about Discharge Planning jobs

What cities are hiring for Discharge Planning jobs?

Cities with the most Discharge Planning job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Discharge Planning jobs?

The most popular types of Discharge Planning jobs are:

What states have the most Discharge Planning jobs?

States with the most job openings for Discharge Planning jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Discharge Planning jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Discharge Planning jobs are:

Discharge Planning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Discharge Planning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,853 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Discharge Planner

SUN Behavioral Columbus

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

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.

Apply