Hospice Clinical Liaison

Position Summary:

The Clinical Liaison for Hospice acts as a bridge between the hospice organization and hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, physicians, and other referral sources. This position is responsible for developing and maintaining relationships, evaluating potential hospice patients for appropriateness, and coordinating the referral and admission process. The Clinical Liaison ensures continuity of care, proper documentation, and timely communication to facilitate smooth and compassionate transitions to hospice care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Establish and maintain professional relationships with referral sources, including physicians, hospital discharge planners, case managers, skilled nursing facilities, and other healthcare professionals.

• Educate patients, their families, and healthcare providers on the philosophy of hospice care, the services offered, and the admission criteria.

• Conduct clinical assessments of patients referred for hospice to determine eligibility under Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance guidelines.

• Facilitate timely hospice admissions by coordinating with the hospice intake and clinical teams.

• Serve as a knowledgeable resource on hospice care, palliative care, and end-of-life options.

• Participate in community outreach and marketing activities to increase awareness of and referrals to hospice services.

• Maintain documentation and records in accordance with regulatory and agency standards.

• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary hospice team to ensure patient needs are met and care plans are appropriate.

• Meet or exceed referral and admission goals set by leadership.

Education & Experience:

• Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or other licensed clinical professional (e.g., Social Worker) required, depending on state regulations.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in hospice, palliative care, home health, or related clinical field.

• Previous experience in a liaison, marketing, or admissions role preferred.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong understanding of hospice philosophy and regulatory guidelines (e.g., Medicare Hospice Benefit).

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to build trust and rapport quickly with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.

• Skilled in clinical assessment and judgment.

• Proficient in electronic medical records and Microsoft Office applications.

• Self-motivated with strong organizational and time management skills.

• Ability to travel locally as needed.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Frequent travel to hospitals, nursing facilities, and patient homes.

• Requires occasional lifting of supplies or patient charts (up to 25 lbs).

• May involve exposure to infectious diseases and clinical environments.

• Requires the ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings or weekends as needed.