Health Unit Coordinator- Duke University Hospital Weekday OR

Position Summary
This position collaborates with healthcare providers by performing a variety of clerical duties that support patient care operations. Responsibilities include greeting patients and visitors, answering telephone calls, responding to patient requests, accessing the electronic medical record (EMR), scheduling appointments, and providing general administrative support as needed. The individual in this role consistently demonstrates excellent customer service and professionalism.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Respond promptly to patient signals and relay requests to the appropriate staff member.


• Place calls for consultations as needed.


• Utilize manual backup systems during downtime as required.


• Assemble and maintain patient charts from admission through discharge.


• Prepare, scan, and upload paper documents into the electronic medical record (EMR).


• Navigate the EMR to access patient information, generate reports, schedule appointments, and manage task lists.


• Use available technology to coordinate and request patient transport.


• Assign nursing staff to communication systems as needed.


• Assist in training and orienting new staff on clerical duties and responsibilities.


• Order unit supplies, maintain inventory, and replenish stock as necessary.


• Copy, file, mail, and distribute materials as appropriate.


• Maintain records required by the unit (e.g., time sheets, continuing education documentation).


• Schedule maintenance requests in the automated system as directed by the Nurse Manager or designee.


• Generate reports (e.g., compliance reports) as requested by leadership.


• Participate in process reviews and improvement initiatives within the department.


• Support implementation of process improvements and ensure compliance with regulatory and legal requirements.


• Demonstrate professional communication when interacting with patients, visitors, and staff, including telephone etiquette.


• Round on patients each shift, greet them, and explain the role of the unit coordinator.


• Provide a welcoming environment for patients, visitors, physicians, and staff, directing individuals appropriately.


• Answer and manage incoming calls, screen and route appropriately, and deliver messages as needed.


• Assist unit leadership with tracking inventory, addressing supply issues, and maintaining adequate patient care supplies.


• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

Experience

• Minimum of six (6) months of experience in a customer service-related role.

Certifications/Licensure

• None required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of health information systems (HIS) and manual downtime procedures.


• Understanding of telephone etiquette and professional communication standards.


• Knowledge of general clerical practices and procedures.


• Basic knowledge of spelling and medical terminology.


• Ability to follow departmental policies and procedures for processing and maintaining records.


• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.


• Proficiency in using computer systems and standard office equipment.


• Ability to communicate clearly in both written and verbal formats.


• Ability to follow oral and written instructions accurately.


• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact courteously and effectively with patients, visitors, and staff.

Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.