Community Health Worker

MISSION/VISION

Healthcare Alternative Systems (H.A.S.) provides a continuum of multicultural and bilingual (English/Spanish) behavioral care and social services that empower individuals, families, and communities. H.A.S. seeks to implement sustainable programs that benefit society by improving the well-being and recovery efforts of those individuals, families, and communities impacted by behavioral health problems. With eleven locations across the Chicagoland area, H.A.S. provides services and resources to individuals at every stage in their behavioral/recovery journey so that they can be successful and become contributing members of their communities.

JOB SUMMARY

In this position, the CHW provides on-going peer support and case management to navigate access to health care and achieve collaboratively developed health goals. This position is responsible for performing duties as part of an integrated interdisciplinary care coordination team. The CHW has life experience similar to that of members of the population with which he or she is assigned to work and builds individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities such as resource and system navigation, outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support and advocacy. The position is informed by and integral to health equity.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Consults and collaborates as an integral part of a multi-disciplinary team.

• Conducts outreach and education to individuals who are in need of health care and social services to increase utilization of the health care system.

• Serves as community liaison and maintain relationships between H.A.S and the community sources.

• Facilitates referrals and transitions within systems of care on behalf of participants.

• Assists participants with obtaining access to health care and supportive services, including coordinating medical care with providers and facilitating appointments.

• Assists participants with navigating through systems of health care and social services and provides for public transportation.

• Assists participants with maintaining relationships with care providers for follow-up screenings and treatment and supporting adherence to program follow-up.

• Assists participants through peer support and frequent communication/follow-up utilizing a harm reduction approach.

• Completes accurate reports as required.

• Participates in meetings, conferences and committees as assigned.

• Provides basic advocacy, assessment, planning and casework services.

• Assists staff in collaborating with community health and social service providers and partner agencies to identify barriers and service gaps.

• Conducts outreach for and facilitate health promotion programming.

• Provides education, information and referrals to clients; locate, identify, and utilize new social services and resources.

• Maintains a case load of participants as required.

• Maintains current knowledge of general health and wellness information, insurance coverage, and available services and resources.

• Maintains the highest level of client confidentiality, in person and in practice.

• Manages and directs IHPA program.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Comprehensive Benefits at Healthcare Alternative Systems (HAS)

At HAS, we value our employees and offer a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial security. When you join our team, you’ll receive:

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)

• 13 Paid Holidays – Enjoy time off to rest and recharge

• Comprehensive Health Insurance – Affordable HMO, PPO, and HSA options through Blue Cross Blue Shield

• Dental & Vision Coverage – Choose from HMO or PPO dental plans and vision coverage through Blue Cross Blue Shield

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)- Medical, dependent care and commuter

• Retirement Plan – 403(b)

• Life & Disability Insurance

• Education & Training Support - $200 dollars annual

• Voluntary Benefits

• EAP

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Thorough knowledge of assigned community and its residents.

• Basic knowledge of state social service agencies and community resources.

• Basic knowledge of health education, motivational strategies and an empathetic manner working with the underserved.

• Basic knowledge of healthcare systems.

• Ability to work with other members of the healthcare team and community to provide quality health care services.

• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and written.

• Must have knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite skills.

• Ability to work with vulnerable populations in a non-judgmental manner.

• Ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.

• Must be able to multi-task, have initiative and be self-directed.

• Ability to endure periods of heavy workload.

• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and respond appropriately to unexpected situations.

• Must be flexible with hours to accommodate participant needs.

• Possession of valid State Driver’s License and willingness to use personal vehicle in course of employment, including the transport of program participants as needed.

• Bilingual in English/Spanish is preferred.

• Experience working with a high volume of clients in a fast-paced environment is preferred.

• H.A.S. Requires all staff to work onsite.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in social work, social sciences, public health or counseling, from a regionally accredited educational institution which has U.S. Department of Education approval, is required; or four (4) years of case management experience.

• Equivalent two (2) years of experience working with diverse populations, community, or faith-based organizations (health care setting experience preferred).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sedentary work. Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Repetitive motion. Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as: preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; extensive reading.

Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.