What will I do in this job?

If you plan to be a health unit coordinator, you will manage non-nursing patient care activities at nursing stations in hospitals and nursing homes. You may process forms for admitting, discharging, and transferring patients. You are responsible for relaying information to nurses, physicians, and other health care workers and related departments.

Health unit coordinators have duties which may include:

• transcribing physicians’ orders by computer or manually
• reading charts and charting
• ordering diets, drugs, equipment, supplies, laboratory tests, and x-ray exams

Health unit coordinators have basic knowledge of medical terminology and pharmacology, nursing, rehabilitation facilities, and clinics. People doing this work may hold a variety of job titles, including unit manager, ward/unit secretary, ward clerk, hospital service coordinator, and receptionist.

Do I need a special license?

No, however certification may be obtained by successfully completing the National Certification Exam offered by the National Association of Health Unit Coordinators.

Will I find a job?

Opportunities for individuals with excellent clerical skills and some experience in the knowledge of the health care field should be good.

How much will I make?

$13,900 - $20,600 (1998)