Medication Services Coordinator (Respite)

Job Details

The schedule for this position is …… The position is located at one of Cascadia’s respite locations. One is in SW Portland, in Tigard and the other is in outer NE Portland, Rockwood area.

 

Respite is a voluntary program that occurs within a safe and relaxed atmosphere, away from the stressors that may be impacting an individual's sense of security and stability. Residents at Respite receive three meals a day, interact in the milieu, explore hobbies, take a walk in a quiet neighborhood setting, and receive on-site support from caring and skillful respite staff at all times. Respite provides support for individuals who need ​further stabilization due to recent medication adjustment, or needs a break from current living situation which appears to be increasing psychiatric symptom and is diagnosed with a mental illness, excluding mental disorders due to a general condition.

 

The Medication Services Coordinator works as a member of an interdisciplinary team to implement and monitor treatment for residents within the Crisis Respite facilities, while supporting a Trauma Informed Care environment. With the high prevalence of trauma among individuals receiving mental health services, it is required the Medication Services Coordinator understand the effects of trauma on health, coping, and other aspects of the lives of those we serve. This position is primarily responsible for managing the medication program at Respite facilities. The Medication Services Coordinator will also participate in developing and implementing program goals and objectives to promote a strengths- based, client centered approach to assisting residents in achieving individual goals and ultimately transitioning to a less restrictive setting. 

 

All incumbents must understand, appreciate and respect the diversity and cultural differences within our Cascadia community.  It is expected that there is an awareness and sensitivity to the perspectives and perceptions to those we serve, as well as our colleagues. As Cascadia is Trauma informed, the incumbent must support a Trauma Informed Care Environment. With the high prevalence of trauma among individuals receiving behavioral health services, it is required that the incumbent understand the effects of trauma on health, coping, and other aspects of the lives of those we serve.

 

On the first of the month, following 60 days of employment, benefit eligible employees (20/hrs. or more per week) are able to enjoy affordable, low cost, medical, dental, and vision benefits. Additionally, Cascadia provides a generous paid time off package, volunteer time off, and more. Upon hire, you will complete paid training and then continue to train onsite in your new job. During the first week of training, you will learn about the agency, understanding those we serve, Trauma informed care, and other skills to prepare you for significant and meaningful work in the behavioral health field, whether you are providing clinical services or non-direct services. Click here to learn about the benefits we offer and more

 

Essential Duties

This position description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities or an all inclusive job description.

• Administer medications to residents as directed by the treatment plan and Nursing staff. Take blood pressure and check vitals as ordered.
• Provide therapeutic interventions and education for residents as directed by the mental health treatment plan.
• Provide input into the establishment of operational procedures.
• Coordinate with oncoming shift regarding resident concerns, building/program needs, and any issues relevant to ensure the smooth operation of the program.
• Keep up to date on the medical treatment plans in collaboration with nursing staff.
• Participate in the referral and intake processes: review the Health Screening form and medical orders, including allergies and somatic medications and issues prior to admission to the program.
• Verify and approve all medication orders to conform to regulations and continue to problem solve until that goal is achieved. Transcribe and audit all MARS daily.
• Consult and communicate with on-call nursing staff to regarding verbal orders and to support the intake process and continued care.
• Meet with each client for review of medications and health conditions. Document in EMR.
• Actively pursue follow up appointments for clients within 7 days of arrival per OARS. Clients with acute medical issues must be seen within 7 days of arrival. Work with Residential Counselors to assure that appointments happen.
• Continually monitor and inventory client medication for appropriate supply and ensure a regular supply of medications.
• Assist clients in obtaining orders or prescriptions as needed; assist in coordination and tracking of PCP, dental, hospital ED, and prescriber appointments.
• Serve as lead preventing potential medical problems or emergencies.
• Assist in systematic check-in with clients when returning from medical appointments to inventory medical changes, new orders, and prescriptions.
• Keep partner pharmacies informed of client discharges.
• Monitor and coach clients on issues of wound care, application of creams and powders, blood glucose procedures, and hygiene issues etc.
• Maintain organization and cleanliness in the medication room; assist with inventory and ordering of supplies and materials.
• Participate in regular supervision with site supervisor or manager. Attend clinical case conferences and staff meetings as appropriate to gain knowledge and communicate program and resident needs.
• Comply with and implement the regulations, policies, and procedures under which the facility is licensed and operates.
• Respect and honor client rights and responsibilities and demonstrate professional boundaries and ethics.
• Document and maintain medical and clinical records in a manner that assures compliance with all agency policies and procedures and local, state, and federal regulations. Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation as required, associated with billing, assessment, treatment, residents’ progress and other activities. Complete electronic medical records (EMR) as required using Cascadia software, including ongoing MAR audits. Complete Incident Reports and document medication errors to Program Manager.
• Demonstrate responsibility for safety of residents and property; possess familiarity with fire regulations and evacuation procedures; participate in regular fire safety drills with residents in compliance with facility policies and procedures. 
• Adhere to mandatory abuse reporting laws and HIPAA requirements.
• Complete annual employee training requirements on a timely basis as defined by the agency and program.
• Attend and participate in all meetings as assigned.
• Must stay awake on all shifts.
• Perform other duties as assigned.