Melissa C. Lockard

Primary clinical liaison for a 1,000-bed Level 1 trauma center and multiple outlying facilities with a multistate Long Term Acute Care Hospital System (LTAC). Collaborate effectively with referring physicians, case management, and nursing management to identify suitable patients for LTAC services. Facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration through regular meetings to enhance a team-oriented approach to patient care. Conduct comprehensive assessments of complex cases with multiple comorbidities to determine individual needs and establish baseline data, ensuring continuity of acute care services. Serve as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers during critical situations, keeping all parties informed of the current status and anticipated actions. Secure prior insurance authorizations and precertifications for hospital admissions and transfers. Frequently coach physicians on peer-to-peer insurance reviews. Coordinate advanced life support transports using ground and air medical transport services. Plan and execute marketing programs to boost referrals, actively engaging with LTAC senior management, the chief nursing officer, floor nursing staff and the business development team to achieve monthly admission goals. LTAC is a highly competitive healthcare space, gaining business requires strategic positioning, exceptional service delivery, and effective marketing strategies to differentiate from competitors.

Promoted positive health outcomes by addressing individual patient needs with customized interventions. Enhanced patient care through accurate telephonic assessments and support, while increasing patient engagement in their own care utilizing motivational interviewing techniques during consultations. Demonstrated exceptional time management skills while handling a high volume of incoming calls from diverse patient populations daily. Improved patient satisfaction by delivering compassionate and empathetic telephonic nursing services. Ensured patient privacy and confidentiality by strictly adhering to HIPAA regulations in all communications. Obtained case histories and gathered triage information to determine the appropriate pathway for care. Assisted in managing patient utilization of the healthcare system and provided education regarding healthcare needs, community resources, and the responsibilities of managed care membership. Explained the course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms. Leveraged firsthand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and implement prescribed treatment strategies.

Performed accurate documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes in compliance with regulatory standards. Contributed to quality assurance initiatives through regular participation in audits reviewing policies and procedures related to endoscopy practice standards. Demonstrated proficiency in administering conscious sedation medications as per physician's orders while closely monitoring patients throughout the procedure. Reduced procedure complications through meticulous monitoring of vital signs and sedation levels during endoscopy procedures. Achieved timely patient discharge by efficiently completing pre & post-procedure evaluations and implementing appropriate recovery plans. Maintained a sterile environment, ensuring proper preparation and disposal of endoscopic equipment to prevent crosscontamination. Supported diagnostic accuracy by assisting physicians during endoscopy procedures, including specimen collection and accurate labeling. Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.

Improved patient comfort through compassionate end-of-life care and personalized symptom management. Managed pain effectively by closely monitoring symptoms and adjusting medications to meet patient needs. Provided emotional and mental support by offering a listening ear to both patients and their loved ones. Advocated for patients' wishes regarding medical treatment options, respecting their cultural beliefs and values throughout the decision-making process. Enhanced family understanding of the hospice process through clear communication and educational support. Implemented creative non-pharmacological interventions for symptom management, significantly enhancing patient comfort and overall quality of life. Streamlined documentation processes to ensure timely completion of necessary paperwork and reports.

Conducted comprehensive assessments of patients' conditions to determine appropriate care plan interventions. Facilitated interdisciplinary team meetings to review patient care plans and progress, ensuring a cohesive approach to patient care. Developed strong rapport with patients and families, building trust and easing the emotional burden of end-of-life care.

Led air transport missions, including interfacility transfers and on-scene responses, enhancing patient outcomes through swift stabilization and safe transfers. Coordinated with interdisciplinary teams to improve mission effectiveness by fostering strong professional relationships. Maintained equipment to ensure FAA compliance, upholding the highest safety standards in air transport operations. Provided compassionate care and emotional support, significantly enhancing the experiences of both patients and their families. In addition to advanced clinical skills, marketing to local hospitals and EMS services was essential in this competitive for-profit healthcare space to establish partnerships and drive business growth.

Same job description as listed above. This position was held at University of Kentucky Level 1 Trauma Facility.

Demonstrated strong clinical reasoning skills in assessing patients' conditions, initiating appropriate interventions, and escalating concerns to physicians as needed. Collaborated with physicians to conduct rapid assessments and deliver timely treatment while managing patients in rapidly changing conditions. Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections, continuously monitoring patient responses for safety and efficacy. Worked with multidisciplinary healthcare teams to develop comprehensive care plans for patients with diverse medical conditions in the Emergency Department. Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing empathetic care and clear communication throughout the treatment process. Performed triage on incoming patients to determine the severity of injuries and illnesses effectively.

Delivered high-quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admissions and triaging based on acuity for appropriate department placement. Documented treatments, medications, IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care accurately in patient records.

Same job description as listed above. This position was held at Saint Joseph Hospital.

Delivered advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), basic life support (BLS), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS) in high-pressure situations. Provided compassionate care to patients experiencing a range of medical emergencies, including cardiac arrests, traumas, strokes, and respiratory distress across all age groups. Enhanced team efficiency by fostering clear communication and collaboration during critical emergency situations. Administered appropriate medications considering potential interactions, accurately calculating dosages based on available drugs and patient weight. Skilled in advanced airway management performing intubations to secure airways in patients undergoing respiratory or cardiac arrest. Conducted thorough vehicle inspections before and after shifts to maintain operational readiness and ensure compliance with state regulations.