Company Description

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better healthcare, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. At Northwestern Medicine, we pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, we take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

Job Description

The NFC Health Advocate reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

Responsibilities:

• Provides case management and support to patients with chronic illnesses in order to assist them in achieving medical and social stability. 
• Provides these services in both the community and in an outpatient clinic to ensure maximum flexibility.
• Initiates clinical contact with adults with chronic medical illness to engage them in setting and achieving measurable goals related to their health care needs throughout various hospital locations.
• Assists patients to identify and obtain appropriate medical and social services; advocates with these agencies for patients; as needed.
• Assists patient connect to federal entitlement appointments via public transportation as needed.
• Actively participates as a member of an interprofessional team; working with physicians, pharmacists, social workers, therapists, and psychiatrist to provide comprehensive patient care.
• Proactively collaborates with other Northwestern Medical Group programs as well as other community-based referral sources to ensure seamless coordination of patient care.
• Documents timely, accurate and appropriate clinical information in patient’s medical record.
• Documents tracking information and clinical data for patient tracking and research purposes.
• Provides coverage for the other Health Advocates, and members of the transitional care team when necessary; possesses the knowledge and experience to competently handle these responsibilities.
• Performs evaluation of the physical environment and adequacy of support systems to prevent a crisis and/or hospitalization.
• Utilizes advanced problem-solving skills and creativity to coordinate action plans when barriers are present.
• Utilizes conflict resolution skills as necessary to ensure timely resolution of issues and system problems.
• Seeks consultation from and makes referrals to appropriate disciplines/departments as required to meet the goals outlined in the patient’s Health Improvement Plan.
• Demonstrates knowledge of community resources and an ability to connect patients and families with these resources.
• Provides patient and family education that promotes wellness and increases knowledge of the health care system.
• Complies with Northwestern Memorial Hospital policies on patient confidentiality including HIPAA requirements and Personal Rules of Conduct.
• Displays sound judgment when conducting visits to patients in diverse communities.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's Degree

Preferred:

• CPR
• Bachelor's degree in human service field or BSW

• One to two years of experience providing medical or mental health case management. 
• Experience as a Health Care Navigator or Certified Application Counselor a plus.

Additional Information

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.