Job Description
Job Description
Position Summary
The PACE Utilization Coordinator - LVN supports utilization management functions for PACE participants. The position assists with utilization review activities, ensures accurate and timely authorizations, and supports care coordination efforts to deliver quality, cost-effective services. This role works under the supervision of the PACE Medical Director and collaborates with the clinical team and external providers.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist in conducting concurrent and retrospective utilization management reviews.
- Support the review of hospitalizations, post-acute care stays, and specialty referrals.
- Track and process referral authorizations within required timeframes.
- Assist with discharge planning and communication with hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and providers.
- Maintain accurate documentation of utilization management activities in the electronic medical record.
- Provide utilization data and reporting support to leadership and clinical teams.
- Identify and report potential utilization issues and outliers to the Medical Director.
- Serve as a liaison with providers and care managers for service authorization questions.
- Support the denial management and provider appeal process.
- Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and care coordination discussions.
- Support quality improvement initiatives related to utilization management.
- Maintain current knowledge of PACE utilization requirements, policies, and procedures.
- Assist in identifying high-risk participants and escalating care concerns to medical leadership.
Minimum Qualifications
Graduate of an accredited vocational nursing program with a current unencumbered LVN license in the State of California.Current BLS certification from the American Heart Association.Valid California driver’s license and acceptable driving record.Minimum two years of nursing experience with direct patient care coordination.Minimum one year of experience working with the frail or elderly population.Knowledge of State and Federal healthcare regulations, quality standards, and utilization review principles and guidelines such as Medicare, Medicaid and MCG / InterQual.Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic medical records.Excellent organizational and communication skills.Ability to interpret clinical documentation and follow established utilization guidelines.Preferred Qualifications
Experience with utilization management or care coordination in a PACE or senior care setting preferred.Physical Demands and Work Environment
Requires standing, walking, occasional pushing, pulling, and lifting.Ability to lift up to 30 pounds; assistance required for heavier loads.Manual dexterity and visual / hearing acuity required for clinical documentation and communication.Exposure to infectious materials and biohazards common in healthcare settings.Must be able to communicate with participants, caregivers, and team members, including those with cognitive or physical limitations.Moderate stress related to workload, deadlines, and participant needs.Direct Reports
PACE Medical Director