Associate Patient Dining Specialist

As an Associate Patient Dining Specialist, you will play a vital role within the caregiving team by assisting patients with their meal selections, assembling and delivering trays, and ensuring meals meet nutritional and safety standards. This position supports patient satisfaction by delivering meals accurately, on time, and at the proper temperature.

Essential Functions

• Guide patients through menu options and collaborate with nursing staff to ensure dietary restrictions and nutritional needs are met.
• Coordinate with culinary and caregiving teams to provide alternatives for patients with allergies, sensitivities, or cultural and religious preferences.
• Manage tray tickets and assemble meals promptly and accurately according to patient selections.
• Retrieve meal trays from patient rooms at scheduled times.
• Comply with federal, state, and local regulatory standards, including food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA policies.
• Follow HACCP guidelines for food handling, workstation cleaning, and tray line breakdown.
• Assist dietitians by monitoring patients with special dietary needs, such as liquid diets or calorie restrictions.
• Communicate any patient concerns or issues to appropriate personnel promptly.
• Perform routine cleaning tasks as outlined in food service policies.
• Adhere to infection control policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education

No formal education requirements; previous food service experience is preferred.

Experience

Prior experience in food service operations is advantageous but not mandatory.

Requirements

• Effective communication skills and clear speech.
• Basic computer and math skills.
• Integrity, compassion, accountability, respect, and excellence in customer service.
• Ability to manage conflict and adapt to changing priorities.
• Commitment to maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality.

This role offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to patient care within a healthcare setting located in the Midwest region of the United States, providing compassionate and attentive service to patients and their families.