DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:

The Psychiatric Case Manager Intake Department serves as the first point of contact for referrals to the inpatient behavioral health program. This role coordinates the intake process by receiving and processing referrals, gathering required documentation, and facilitating communication between referring providers and the inpatient treatment team. The Intake Coordinator ensures accurate tracking of referrals and assists with determining appropriate next steps in the admission process.

SUPERVISION: Reports to Behavioral Health Intake Supervisor, the Director of Social Services, and Psychiatric Services Director

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Receive and process referrals for behavioral health services from emergency departments, medical units, outside hospitals, physicians, and community providers.
• Collect and verify patient demographic and clinical information needed for intake review.
• Maintain the intake referral log and track all referrals, admissions, and dispositions.
• Coordinate communication between referring providers and the inpatient clinical team regarding clinical information and admission decisions.
• Assist in obtaining required records, including medical clearance documentation, lab results, and prior psychiatric history.
• Facilitate communication regarding admission decisions to referring providers and hospital departments.
• Coordinate patient transfer logistics when admissions are accepted.
• Assist in identifying alternative treatment resources when patients do not meet criteria for the inpatient behavioral health program.
• Ensure all referral documentation is appropriately entered into the electronic medical record (EMR) when applicable.
• Maintain compliance with hospital policies related to patient privacy, confidentiality, and documentation.

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree; preferred in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, Counseling, Sociology, or a related behavioral health field.
• Knowledge of behavioral health terminology and psychiatric services delivery
• Strong organizational and care coordination skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration with treatment team.
• Ability to manage multiple referrals and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong documentation and time management skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

Preferred:

• Experience working in a behavioral health or healthcare setting
• Experience with patient intake, admission coordination, or referral management
• Understanding of behavioral health levels of care and community resources

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• Work requires a variety of physical activities including sitting, standing and walking.
• Bending, stooping, and lifting are minimal.
• The work environment may be physically confining.
• Visual acuity is required for a variety of activities.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

“Experience Memorial” is more than a slogan, it’s the care we provide our patients and it’s the commitment to our community and our team members. As a nationally certified Great Place to Work, at Lake Charles Memorial Health System you will have the opportunity to be a part of an organizational culture that supports not only exceptional patient care but also the well-being and professional growth of our employees. Join us and be a part of a team where your contributions are valued, your growth is nurtured, and your success is celebrated.

Working at Lake Charles Memorial Health System | Great Place To Work®