Test Counselor for Health Access Point - Rafiki Coalition

The Health Access Point (HAP) is UMOJA HAP offers low barrier, comprehensive services to address social determinants of sexual health and economic disparities impacting the diverse Black/African-American community in San Francisco. Through collaborative trauma informed and harm reduction approaches, the UMOJA HAP strives to address complex structural issues to promote sexual health equity and wellness.

The UMOJA HAP Test Counselor primarily provides pre- and post-test counseling to individuals getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, or Hepatitis C, which includes explaining the testing process, discussing risk factors, offering support, and providing referrals to further services if necessary, all while maintaining confidentiality and adhering to ethical guidelines; their role often involves outreach and education within the community to encourage testing and promote healthy behaviors.

The HAP Test Counselor will be responsible for:

• Client Intake: Conducting initial interviews with individuals seeking testing to understand their health history and risk factors.
• Informed Consent: Explaining the testing process, including potential risks and benefits, and obtaining informed consent from clients.
• Proper Handling of bio-harzardous materials.
• Pre-test Counseling: Providing education about STIs, HIV, and Hepatitis C, including transmission methods, symptoms, and prevention strategies.
• Test Administration: Assisting with the collection of specimens for testing, following proper procedures.
• Post-test Counseling: Delivering test results to clients in a sensitive and supportive manner, discussing options based on results, and providing referrals to appropriate healthcare providers or support groups if needed.
• Community Outreach: Participating in community events and outreach programs to raise awareness about testing and prevention services.
• Data Collection and Reporting: Maintaining accurate client records and reporting relevant data to the UMOJA HAP.
• UMOJA HAP Events and Pop up: Assist and support UMOJA HAP as needed or assigned in a testing or other designated areas at events, pop ups, or static sites.
  
  

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport with diverse clients
• Knowledge of STIs, HIV, and Hepatitis C, including transmission, symptoms, and prevention strategies
• Ability to provide culturally sensitive and client-centered counseling
• Confidentiality and ethical practices regarding client information
• Basic understanding of healthcare systems and referral procedures

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Valid Drivers License
• San Francisco resident familiar with the community and its members preferred

Experience working in nonprofit or public sector strongly preferre

PHYSICAL EXPECTATIONS:

• Bend to reach lower storage areas and to remove objects from storage areas located above eye level
• Assist with setup & teardown, as needed
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds, carry clinical supplies and assist with set-up and tear-down as necessary