What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community Health Worker position at Purcell Municipal Hospital?
Purcell Municipal Hospital is in need of a Community Health Worker.
JOB SUMMARY
The Community Health Worker (CHW) is a position responsible for improving access to care, facilitating care coordination, strengthening community partnerships, and addressing social determinants of health that impact patient outcomes.
This role serves as a liaison between health and social services and the community to facilitate access to services, to improve the quality of service delivery, and to maximize the efficiency of service delivery. This is through coordinating available resources and leveraging partnerships with private, nonprofit, or faith-based organizations.
The CHW serves as a bridge between the healthcare system and rural community members by providing culturally responsive outreach, care navigation, health education, and resource coordination to support improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare disparities. This role will build the individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, social support, and advocacy.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Conducts proactive outreach within the hospital's rural service area to identify unmet health needs.
- Build trusting relationships with patients, families, and community organizations.
- Support community events, screenings, and health promotions.
- Assist patients in accessing medical, behavioral health, and social services.
- Help patients navigate healthcare systems and understand care plans.
- Identify barriers such as transportation, financial limitations, or access challenges and assist in problem-solving.
- Maintain accurate documentation of outreach activities and patient interactions.
- Assist with tracking outcomes related to population health goals.
- Develop partnerships with local agencies, schools, social services, and community organizations to address community needs.
- Advocate for rural health needs and participate in initiatives that promote health equity.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or GED required
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation, required
- Ability to communicate effectively
- Strong organizational skills for health tracking, managing data, scheduling education, and working with community
- CPR/First Aid certification
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- College education in Social Work, Nursing or Public Health
- Community Health Worker certification
- Experience with rural populations or community-based outreach