Patient Navigator

MISSION STATEMENT:

Are you ready to make a difference in your community while pursuing your passion? Since 1998, La Casa de Salud (LCDS) has been committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the South Bronx, one of New York City's most diverse and resilient communities. As a Federally Qualified Health Center operating across five community-based sites, we deliver high-quality, compassionate, whole-person care to all our neighbors—regardless of their ability to pay. Our services are fully integrated, bilingual, and culturally competent, and our team works at the intersection of clinical excellence and community impact. We are looking for mission-driven professionals who share our commitment to health equity and want their work to truly matter. At LCDS, you're not just joining a workplace—you're becoming part of a mission to build a healthier Bronx, one patient at a time.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Peer Navigator plays a key role in supporting individuals who face barriers to accessing care, including those experiencing homelessness, living with chronic health conditions, or at risk due to behavioral health or substance use challenges. Drawing from lived experience, the Peer Navigator serves as a bridge between the community and clinical or supportive services, promoting engagement, empowerment, and recovery. This role is field-based and requires a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to navigate complex systems of care. The Peer Navigator may also serve as a backup driver for mobile outreach activities. 

KEY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

· Establish trusting relationships with individuals encountered through street-based, community-based, and clinic-based outreach activities.

· Support participants in navigating services such as primary care, behavioral health, substance use treatment, housing, and benefits enrollment.

· Provide appointment reminders, accompany clients to appointments as needed, and assist in reducing barriers to care.

· Document outreach encounters, service linkages, and follow-ups using standardized forms or electronic health records.

· Collaborate with care teams to develop and implement person-centered service plans.

· Participate in multidisciplinary case conferences to discuss client progress and emerging needs.

· Educate clients on health and wellness topics, treatment adherence, and harm avoidance strategies.

· Assist in the distribution of educational materials, personal care supplies, and health-related resources during outreach.

· Maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA and organizational compliance protocols.

· Participate in all required training, including trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, overdose prevention, and crisis de-escalation.

· Build rapport and maintain a positive presence in target communities, fostering a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment.

· Act as a role model by demonstrating healthy coping mechanisms and sustained engagement in wellness or recovery pathways.

· Serve as a backup driver for the outreach vehicle when necessary, including transporting staff and/or participants to services such as detox programs, shelter placements, or medical appointments.

REQUIREMENTS:

· High school diploma or equivalent required.

· Lived experience with recovery, homelessness, HIVor HCV, behavioral health, or justice involvement preferred.

· Completion of or willingness to complete Peer Recovery Training and/or certification.

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to engage diverse populations.

· Experience working in community-based, field, or outreach settings preferred.

· Ability to work independently and within a team structure in fast-paced, changing environments.

· Proficiency in using smartphones, tablets, or basic documentation tools.

· Valid NY State Driver’s License preferred; ability and willingness to drive an organizational vehicle as needed.

· Must be comfortable with field work in various weather and neighborhood conditions.

· Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.

WHY JOIN US?

Acacia Network provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. In addition to a competitive salary, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off, including vacation days and paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance. We prioritize the well-being of our employees both professionally and personally.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.