Patient Navigator (San Diego, CA)

Position Summary: As a member of the Social Services Team reporting to the Social Services Manager, the Patient Navigator is responsible for assisting high-risk and vulnerable patient populations navigate medical and non-medical services. The Patient Navigator increases access to care by identifying psychosocial barriers with the goal of aligning resources to improve access to healthcare and health outcomes. Under the supervision of the Patient Navigation Supervisor, the Patient Navigator will assist with patient retention and engagement by promoting and offering SYHealth programs and services, providing assistance with health issues impacting the community, and health advocacy, etc. Essential Functions of the Job: Perform in-depth screening for internal and external community programs for the purpose of educating, navigating and connecting patients with needed services. As a Patient Navigator, services will be provided via telecommunications and in person at specific clinic sites. Obtain verbal consent and/or written authorization from patients and create patient profile on the Community Information Exchange (CIE) system. Use active listening and conversational intent in all interactions to provide high -quality confidential connections to resources and services to all SYHealth patients. Using needs assessment, identify programs and resources to assist patients based on the social determinants of health utilizing the PRAPARE Tool. Actively listen to clients to develop a strategy that identifies solutions to barriers to access. Accurately document all patient interactions and unmet needs into NextGen to assist in the identification of gaps in services that can be addressed organizationally. Offer patients internal appointments, for example, social work, behavioral health and/or other needed services. Also utilize direct referral function on CIE. Comply with Community Information Exchange regulations and complete all CIE trainings. Collaborate with Social Services Department and participate in year-round community/charitable events. Keep all activities in line with the core values and contribute to the positive culture of SYHealth. Maintains accurate records of all activities performed and submits pertinent reports by due dates. Represent SYHealth in an effective and professional manner and maintains positive working relationships with the general public, clients, patients, co-workers and other agencies. Adheres to SYHealth and all department's policies and procedure protocols. Additional Duties and Responsibilities: Maintains established departmental policies and procedures, objectives quality assurance programs, safely, environmental and infection control standards. Enhances professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in-service meetings and workshops. Attends all organizational and departmental meetings as required. Performs other related duties/projects as assigned or requested. Job Requirements Education Required: Associates Degree in social work or other related fields. Experience can be considered in lieu of education requirements. Certifications/Licenses Required: CA Driver's license and access to privately owned insured vehicle. Experience and Required Skills: Minimum of 1-2 years of professional experience in patient navigation, care coordination, case management, or a related field within a healthcare environment. Demonstrated experience providing empathetic, culturally sensitive, and patient-focused services, ensuring equitable access to care. Proficiency with advanced electronic health record (EHR) systems like Epic, including appointment scheduling, medical record review, and standardized data entry. In-depth understanding of health insurance processes, including eligibility verification, compliance with regulatory standards, and knowledge of healthcare reimbursement systems. Practical experience conducting screenings for social determinants of health (SDOH), documenting results, and connecting patients to resources for housing, food, transportation, and other essential services. Familiarity with healthcare regulatory standards, such as UDS and DHCS reporting requirements, and experience maintaining compliance through accurate documentation and timely scheduling. Proven ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations, including explaining healthcare processes, conducting patient assessments, and facilitating referrals or handoffs. Ability to manage multiple responsibilities, such as validating insurance, meeting scheduling timelines, and addressing patient needs, in a fast-paced environment. Experience working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, including social workers, clinicians, and administrative staff, to ensure continuity of care. A proactive approach to identifying care gaps, addressing barriers, and adapting to changing clinic workflows to enhance patient outcomes and support organizational goals. Experience working with high-risk vulnerable populations and related socioeconomic barriers, cultural concerns, and the psychosocial issues prevalent in vulnerable populations. Strong skills in computer literacy; proficient with Microsoft and database programs, including internet navigation and research skills. Essential personal attributes include a positive and enthusiastic attitude. Verbal and Written Skills Required to Perform the Job: Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with patients, visitors, and all internal and external staff. Equipment Used: Computer, iPad, multi-line phone, fax, copier, scanner. Working Conditions and Physical Requirements: Flexibility in schedule to meet departmental needs. Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods. Lifting 25-40 lbs. Continuous contact with patients. Travel to any satellite facility. Universal Requirements: Pre-employment requirements include I-9, physical, positive background and reference check results, complete application, new hire orientation, pre-employment PPDs. Compliance with all mandated vaccinations and all boosters is a term and condition of employment.