Health Unit Coordinator - CDH Mother/Baby, Part-time, Evenings

As a Health Unit Coordinator at Northwestern Medicine, you will be responsible for a variety of essential tasks that ensure smooth unit operations. Your duties will include clerical functions, patient registration, managing medical records, and serving as the communication link between patients and healthcare staff. You'll also handle patient inquiries, update them on their care, and maintain an organized workflow in collaboration with the charge RN and other departments.

To qualify for the Health Unit Coordinator role at Northwestern Medicine, you must have a High School Diploma or GED equivalent, along with basic computer knowledge. Strong verbal and written communication skills in English are essential, and the ability to effectively utilize interpreter services when necessary is a plus. While not required, having one year of experience in a relevant clinical situation is preferred.

The Health Unit Coordinator at Northwestern Medicine plays a crucial role in supporting patient care by providing timely information, addressing concerns, and assisting with patient navigation within the healthcare system. By effectively managing communication between different departments and care teams, you help create a seamless experience for patients and their families, contributing directly to the overall quality of care.

In the Health Unit Coordinator position at Northwestern Medicine, the typical work schedule consists primarily of part-time evening shifts from 3 PM to 11:30 PM, with an expectation to work every other weekend. This schedule allows flexibility while ensuring that you’re part of the team during key patient care hours.

At Northwestern Medicine, Health Unit Coordinators have numerous opportunities for career advancement. By actively participating in professional development activities and continuing education programs, you can broaden your skills and knowledge, which can lead to new roles or promotions within the organization. The supportive environment fosters growth and encourages staff to pursue their career goals in healthcare.

When faced with a difficult situation, it’s important to remain calm and listen actively to the concerns of the patient or family member. Show empathy and validate their feelings, providing reassurance that their concerns are acknowledged. Use your problem-solving skills to identify the best course of action and, if necessary, involve a nurse or physician to assist. Remember to communicate clearly and keep them informed throughout the process.

To demonstrate prioritization in a busy environment, I would describe a scenario where I was tasked with managing patient admissions, responding to inquiries, and maintaining updated records. I utilized a checklist to categorize tasks based on urgency and importance, focusing first on patient admissions while keeping a close eye on pending requests. This approach ensured timely service without compromising on quality.

Teamwork is essential in the role of a Health Unit Coordinator as it ensures that patient care is cohesive and effective. I would emphasize that supporting colleagues, communicating openly, and sharing knowledge enhances the workflow and ultimately improves patient outcomes. Collaboration with nursing staff and other departments is vital to address any challenges promptly.

Ensuring patient confidentiality is a top priority in a healthcare setting. I would adhere strictly to HIPAA guidelines and protocols, making certain that sensitive information is only shared with authorized personnel. I also believe in creating a secure environment for patient interactions by using private spaces for discussions and being discreet in all communications.

My motivation to work in healthcare stems from my passion for helping others and making a positive impact on their lives during challenging times. I find fulfillment in providing support and assistance at critical moments, particularly in maternal and newborn care, where empathy and compassion are vital.

In situations involving communication breakdowns, I would first identify the root cause of the misunderstanding. Then, I would proactively reach out to the involved departments, seeking clarity and fostering open dialogue. It’s essential to facilitate a productive conversation, ensuring that all parties understand their roles and responsibilities moving forward.

The most important skills for a Health Unit Coordinator include strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, organizational skills, and empathy. The capability to manage time effectively, work under pressure, and collaborate with a diverse team is also vital for ensuring that all patient needs are met efficiently.

Staying organized during busy shifts involves developing a systematic approach, such as maintaining a task list, prioritizing duties based on urgency, and delegating responsibilities when appropriate. I also rely on digital tools for tracking requests and keeping updated records, which helps me navigate tasks efficiently.

An example of excellent customer service could involve a time I assisted a family member with navigating the healthcare facility. I approached them with warmth, actively listened to their concerns, and guided them to the correct departments while ensuring they had all the necessary information. This resulted in a positive experience for them and exemplified my commitment to patient-centered service.

I want to work at Northwestern Medicine because of its strong reputation for providing exceptional patient care and its commitment to employee growth and development. The organization’s patient-first philosophy resonates with my values, and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to a team that values compassion, teamwork, and quality healthcare.