Hospice Care Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of healthcare, the need for Hospice Care Coordinators is ever growing.

As society progresses, the call for compassionate, skilled individuals who can manage and enhance our end-of-life care systems increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected of a Hospice Care Coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of hospice care coordination,

You’ve found the right spot.

Today, we reveal a tailor-made Hospice Care Coordinator job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Hospice Care Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

Hospice Care Coordinators play a critical role in providing end-of-life care to patients.

They collaborate with healthcare professionals and family members to ensure patients have the necessary support and resources.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing the medical and emotional needs of patients and their families
• Developing individualized care plans in consultation with patients, families, and healthcare providers
• Coordinating services provided by various healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains
• Providing education to patients and their families about the hospice care process and end-of-life issues
• Maintaining accurate and timely documentation of patient care activities
• Ensuring the delivery of quality patient care and compliance with hospice care standards and regulations
• Communicating effectively with patients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure that patient needs are met and concerns are addressed
• Assisting in the resolution of any issues or conflicts that may arise during the provision of hospice care
• Providing emotional support and counseling to patients and their families
• Arranging for any necessary supplies or equipment for patient care

 

Hospice Care Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and organized Hospice Care Coordinator to join our team.

The Hospice Care Coordinator will be responsible for facilitating and coordinating the optimal care for patients and families dealing with terminal illness.

This includes assessing the patient’s needs, developing a personalized care plan, coordinating with a multidisciplinary team, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality end-of-life care.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate the needs and condition of patients to develop comprehensive care plans
• Coordinate with physicians, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the delivery of high-quality, compassionate end-of-life care
• Maintain detailed records and communicate patient progress to relevant parties
• Provide emotional support and counseling to patients and their families
• Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations and safety standards
• Act as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers
• Assist in the training and support of hospice care staff
• Participate in regular interdisciplinary group meetings

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Hospice Care Coordinator or similar role in healthcare
• Knowledge of nursing practices, techniques, and applicable laws
• Experience with medical software and MS Office
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information
• BS or diploma in nursing, social work, psychology, or a related field
• Licensed Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is preferred

 

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Employee assistance program
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Hospice Care Coordinator
• Work Environment: Hospice facility, with occasional travel required to patient homes or other care facilities
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Hospice Director or Clinical Supervisor
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal]

 

What Does a Hospice Care Coordinator Do?

Hospice Care Coordinators typically work in hospice agencies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

Their role is to manage and oversee the care of patients who are in the final stages of terminal illnesses.

They work closely with a team of healthcare professionals including doctors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains, to create and implement individualized care plans for each patient.

A significant part of their job involves communicating with the patient and their family members, explaining the medical care plan, and offering emotional support.

They also liaise with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure that the patient’s medical needs are met and that they are comfortable.

Hospice Care Coordinators may also coordinate the provision of various therapies such as physical, occupational, or speech therapy, depending on the patient’s needs.

They often play a critical role in ensuring a patient’s final days are as comfortable and dignified as possible, and they provide vital support to families during a challenging time.

It’s also their responsibility to respect the cultural and religious beliefs of the patient and their family and to ensure the care provided aligns with these beliefs.

The Hospice Care Coordinator also manages administrative tasks such as maintaining patient records, coordinating schedules, and ensuring that all necessary resources are available for the patient’s care.

They may also assist in training staff and volunteers.

 

Hospice Care Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Hospice Care Coordinator should possess a set of specific skills and qualifications, which can include:

• Strong organizational and administrative skills to manage and coordinate care plans for multiple patients simultaneously.
• Advanced knowledge of medical terminologies and familiarity with hospice care procedures and practices.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients, their families, and medical staff, and to convey difficult information empathetically and clearly.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify, assess, and resolve any issues related to patient care or team coordination.
• Ability to stay calm and composed under pressure while working in emotionally charged environments.
• Empathy and compassion to provide emotional support to patients and their families during challenging times.
• Attention to detail to ensure all patient needs are met and to monitor changes in patient conditions.
• A degree in nursing, healthcare administration, or related field, and experience in a hospice or end-of-life care setting is usually required.

 

Hospice Care Coordinator Experience Requirements

Hospice Care Coordinators are typically required to have a nursing degree or social work degree, and at least one to two years of clinical experience in a healthcare setting, preferably in hospice or palliative care.

Entry-level roles may require a minimum of one year of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in healthcare settings, specifically working with patients in end-of-life care or with serious illnesses.

These professionals can also gain relevant experience in roles such as Case Manager, Social Worker, or Registered Nurse.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their coordination and patient care skills in entry-level Hospice Care Coordinator roles or similar positions.

These candidates have a deeper understanding of hospice care regulations, medical terminologies, and documentation procedures.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have some leadership experience, having managed a team of healthcare professionals, and may be ready for a managerial role in the hospice care field.

In addition to the above, hospice care coordinators should possess excellent communication skills, emotional strength, and the ability to manage stressful situations, as they will be interacting with patients and their families during an emotionally challenging time.

 

Hospice Care Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

A Hospice Care Coordinator typically requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field, although some employers may accept an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing.

They should also be registered nurses, which requires passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

Licensing requirements may vary by state, so it’s essential to check with the local nursing board.

In addition to nursing education, hospice care coordinators often need several years of experience in a clinical setting, preferably in hospice or palliative care.

Many hospice coordinators may also pursue certification as a Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) through the Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center.

This certification indicates an advanced level of knowledge and expertise in the field of hospice care.

Additional training may also be required in areas such as pain management, end-of-life care, bereavement counseling, and patient advocacy.

Because of the emotional intensity of the work, hospice coordinators also need strong interpersonal and communication skills, as well as the ability to work with a multidisciplinary team.

Continuing education to keep up with the latest practices and developments in hospice care is also essential.

 

Hospice Care Coordinator Salary Expectations

A Hospice Care Coordinator can expect to earn an average salary of $64,000 (USD) per year.

This figure can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, qualifications, and the location of the job.

Additional variables like the size and funding of the employing organization can also impact the salary.

 

Hospice Care Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Hospice Care Coordinator need?

Hospice Care Coordinators should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.

They should have knowledge in palliative care, counseling, and pain management.

They also need to be empathetic, compassionate, and respectful towards the patients and their families.

Organizational and problem-solving skills are also important to manage caseloads and coordinate care effectively.

 

Do Hospice Care Coordinators need a degree?

Yes, a Hospice Care Coordinator typically needs a bachelor’s degree in nursing, social work, healthcare administration or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree.

Most positions also require licensing in their respective field, for example a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

 

What should you look for in a Hospice Care Coordinator resume?

In a Hospice Care Coordinator resume, look for a relevant degree and licensure, as well as experience in hospice or palliative care.

Look for skills such as patient care, case management, family support, and end-of-life care.

It’s also important to look for evidence of strong communication skills, teamwork, compassion and empathy.

 

What qualities make a good Hospice Care Coordinator?

A good Hospice Care Coordinator should be compassionate, understanding, and patient, as they work with individuals who are in the final stages of life.

They should have strong interpersonal and communication skills, able to interact effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams.

They should also be organized and detail-oriented, able to manage multiple patients’ care plans and coordinate care among various healthcare providers.

 

Is it difficult to hire Hospice Care Coordinators?

The demand for Hospice Care Coordinators is increasing as the population ages, so recruitment can be challenging.

It may be difficult to find qualified candidates with the necessary skills, experience, and emotional resilience for this role.

To attract candidates, you may need to offer competitive compensation, supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional development.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have shed light on the essential role of a hospice care coordinator.

Surprised?

It’s not just about managing health care schedules.

It’s about orchestrating end-of-life care, one patient at a time.

Armed with our reliable hospice care coordinator job description template and real-life scenarios, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Go deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating spot-on job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every care plan is a part of a greater journey.

Let’s make that journey meaningful. Together.

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