Patient Education Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving healthcare industry, the need for Patient Education Coordinators has become increasingly vital.

As healthcare becomes more complex, there is a growing need for skilled professionals who can educate, empower, and guide patients through their healthcare journey.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Patient Education Coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile for the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricate world of patient education,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Patient Education Coordinator job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Patient Education Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Education Coordinators are primarily responsible for facilitating and enhancing the medical understanding and healthcare management of patients.

They liaise between healthcare providers and patients to ensure patients are well-informed about their diagnosis, treatment, and healthcare management plans.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Design and develop educational materials related to diseases, treatments, and health management
• Coordinate with healthcare providers to understand patient needs and provide relevant information
• Educate patients and their families about diagnoses, treatments and what to expect moving forward
• Conduct individual or group patient education sessions
• Assess patient understanding and retention of important medical and healthcare information
• Assist patients in managing their own care and make informed decisions about their health
• Ensure medical information is delivered in an accessible and understandable manner
• Advocate for patients and assist in finding resources and services
• Keep up-to-date with latest health and medical advancements, treatments, and procedures
• Adhere to all patient privacy regulations and maintain confidentiality of patient information

 

Patient Education Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Patient Education Coordinator to provide educational support and resources to patients and their families.

Your responsibilities will include developing patient education programs, creating educational materials, and coordinating with medical staff to ensure that patients understand their medical conditions and treatment plans.

Our ideal candidate has a background in healthcare and education, a deep understanding of medical terminology, and excellent communication skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement patient education programs
• Create educational materials for patients and their families
• Coordinate with healthcare providers to clarify medical procedures and treatment plans
• Plan and facilitate educational workshops and support groups
• Assess patient understanding of health conditions and treatment plans
• Train staff on patient education best practices
• Stay up-to-date on the latest healthcare best practices and trends

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Patient Education Coordinator or similar role
• Knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare procedures
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Ability to explain complex medical information in an understandable way
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Compassionate and patient-centric approach
• BSc degree in nursing, healthcare administration, education or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Patient Education Coordinator
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinic environment. Some weekend or evening shifts may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Patient Education Manager or Director of Nursing.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• 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 Patient Education Coordinator Do?

Patient Education Coordinators typically work in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics or nursing homes.

They can also work for healthcare organizations, insurance companies, or wellness programs.

Their main role is to develop and implement educational programs for patients, their families, and communities.

These programs often focus on promoting health and preventing disease.

They may also provide education on specific medical conditions, treatments, or procedures.

Patient Education Coordinators work closely with healthcare providers to ensure that educational materials and programs are up-to-date and accurate.

They also collaborate with other members of the healthcare team to assess patients’ educational needs and to develop personalized education plans.

They often serve as a resource for patients, answering their questions and helping them understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and care plan.

They may also organize and facilitate patient education classes, workshops, or support groups.

In addition, Patient Education Coordinators may play a role in community outreach and education.

They may organize health fairs, conduct health screenings, and give presentations on various health topics.

Their goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their health by providing them with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

 

Patient Education Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

A competent Patient Education Coordinator should have the skills and qualifications that align with the role, including:

• Excellent communication skills to explain medical procedures and care plans to patients, answer their queries, and make them feel comfortable.
• Ability to develop and implement patient education programs tailored to the needs of different patient groups.
• Knowledge of healthcare operations and clinical terminology to facilitate accurate and useful patient education materials and programs.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with patients, their families, and healthcare providers, fostering a conducive environment for learning and treatment.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple responsibilities, including planning, coordinating, and implementing various educational programs and activities.
• Leadership skills to manage and train other staff members involved in patient education.
• Empathy and patience to understand the perspectives of patients and their families, especially during stressful or challenging times.
• Proficiency in using medical software and technology to enhance the delivery of patient education.
• Experience in designing and distributing educational materials such as pamphlets, videos, and online resources.

 

Patient Education Coordinator Experience Requirements

A Patient Education Coordinator typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree in health education, nursing, or a related field.

This education provides a basic foundation in understanding healthcare, patient needs, and education principles.

Entry-level Patient Education Coordinators may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in healthcare education or patient care settings.

These professionals may also have experience as a Registered Nurse, Health Educator, or in other patient-focused roles.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience have usually developed a deeper understanding of patient education programs, healthcare systems, and patient advocacy.

They may have also gained experience in developing and implementing patient education materials and initiatives.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have a wealth of hands-on experience and may have held leadership roles in their past positions.

They may be ready to handle more complex tasks such as evaluating the effectiveness of patient education programs, training other healthcare professionals, or overseeing a team of educators.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in health education or a similar field for these advanced roles.

Certification as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) or Certified Patient Education Specialist (CPES) can also be beneficial and may be required for some positions.

 

Patient Education Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

Patient Education Coordinators typically require a bachelor’s degree in nursing, health education, or a related field.

They may also need previous experience in a healthcare setting to fully understand the patient perspective and healthcare processes.

This experience could be gained through internships, part-time jobs, or nursing positions.

In addition, Patient Education Coordinators must have excellent communication skills to effectively deliver health education to patients.

Hence, they might benefit from courses in communication, psychology, or sociology.

Some positions might require a master’s degree in health education or a related field, particularly for positions in large healthcare facilities or those that involve designing and implementing education programs.

Patient Education Coordinators should also have a good understanding of medical terminology and the ability to translate complex medical concepts into language that patients can easily understand.

This often requires additional training or coursework in medical terminology.

Certification as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) or Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) from the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc.

(NCHEC) is often preferred and in some cases may be required.

Continuing education is essential in this field to stay up-to-date with the latest health information and teaching techniques.

This can be achieved through seminars, workshops, or additional coursework.

 

Patient Education Coordinator Salary Expectations

A Patient Education Coordinator earns an average salary of $55,805 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors like experience, qualifications, location, and the healthcare facility where the individual is employed.

 

Patient Education Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Patient Education Coordinator need?

Patient Education Coordinators should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients effectively.

A strong understanding of medical terminologies and concepts is required.

They should also have strong organizational skills and the ability to work with diverse groups of people.

Familiarity with multimedia educational tools and methods is desirable.

 

Do Patient Education Coordinators need a degree?

Patient Education Coordinators typically need a bachelor’s degree in health education, nursing, or a related field.

Some roles may require a master’s degree.

Depending on the organization, specific certifications related to patient education or healthcare management could be required or preferred.

 

What should you look for in a Patient Education Coordinator resume?

A Patient Education Coordinator’s resume should highlight their educational background in health education or a related field.

It should showcase their experience in patient education, curriculum development, and program management.

The resume should also indicate their proficiency in using various education technologies and demonstrate their ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.

 

What qualities make a good Patient Education Coordinator?

A good Patient Education Coordinator is empathetic, patient, and able to communicate complex health information in a way that is easy to understand.

They should be organized, creative, and adept at problem-solving.

A strong commitment to patient care and a passion for education are also important qualities.

 

What are the daily duties of a Patient Education Coordinator?

On a typical day, a Patient Education Coordinator may meet with healthcare providers to discuss patient education needs, develop or update educational materials, and conduct educational sessions for patients and their families.

They may also monitor patient progress, evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs, and make necessary improvements.

In addition, they may coordinate with other healthcare professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach to patient education.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve pulled back the shroud on what it truly means to be a Patient Education Coordinator.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about explaining medical jargon.

It’s about bridging the gap between healthcare and understanding, one patient at a time.

With our handy Patient Education Coordinator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why end your journey here?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precision-aligned job listings or honing your resume to its finest.

Bear in mind:

Every piece of information is a step towards better healthcare.

Let’s build that bridge. Together.

How to Become a Patient Education Coordinator (Complete Guide)

Why Work Hard When You Can Work Smart? Easy, High-Paying Jobs!

The Road Less Worked: Discovering the World’s Most Unusual Jobs

Beyond the Call of Duty: Jobs That Require Unwavering Bravery

The Happiest Hustles: Jobs That Bring Joy and Success