Athens Joint & Spine Center Navigator

Description

Position Summary:

The Athens Joint & Spine Center Navigator is a key clinical liaison responsible for coordinating the continuum of care for patients undergoing outpatient total joint replacement and spinal surgery. This role ensures patients are appropriately selected, thoroughly prepared, and well-supported throughout the surgical journey—from pre-operative assessment through post-discharge recovery at home.

Key Responsibilities:

Patient Evaluation & Preoperative Coordination

• Review referrals and verify that patients meet established clinical criteria for outpatient surgery at the ambulatory surgery center.
• Coordinate and ensure completion of all required pre-operative testing, including labs and EKGs, clearances.
• Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, primary care providers, and any other medical specialists to optimize patients for surgery.

Patient Education & Communication

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all patient phone calls  related to surgery preparation and recovery.
• Provide comprehensive preoperative instructions, including fasting  guidelines, medication management, and arrival logistics.
• Educate patients and caregivers on what to expect during surgery,  recovery timelines, pain management, and signs of complications.
• Conduct preoperative education sessions (in-person or virtual)  tailored to joint and spine procedures.

Discharge Planning & Home Preparation

• Coordinate and prepare durable medical equipment (DME) for home use,      including walkers, crutches, raised toilet seats, back braces, etc.
• Ensure patients have appropriate home support and understand discharge instructions.
• Facilitate communication with home health services, physical therapy, or outpatient rehab as needed.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory and accreditation standards related to outpatient surgery and patient safety.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Education: Registered Nurse (RN); BSN preferred.
• Licensure: Current state licensure in good standing.
• Experience: Minimum 3 years of clinical      experience in orthopedics, spine, or perioperative care. Experience in      ambulatory surgery or care coordination preferred.
• Skills:
  • Strong clinical judgment and patient assessment       skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in       a fast-paced environment.

Working Conditions:

• Onsite 
• May require occasional early morning or late afternoon hours to      accommodate patient schedules.