General Description:

Under indirect supervision, the Community Health Worker works closely with the Emergency Department’s Medical Providers, Registered Nurses, and social services agencies. They provide patient care coordination, connection to resources, and support programs to improve patients’ health outcomes and general well-being through education, provision of coordination of care and services.

Essential Functions:

1. Administers, evaluates, and scores the New Mexico state approved Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire (HLQ).
2. Communicates to patients the purpose of the screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment program and the impact it may have on their wellbeing. Helps patients identify substance use disorder issues that affect their overall health through motivational interviewing.
3. Assists in care coordination of patients in referral services and accessing health related services, including but not limited to mental health, alcohol and substance use treatment, obtaining a primary medical provider, providing health care management instruction, overcoming barriers to obtaining needed medical care and /or social services.
4. Documents all patient encounters and referrals made on behalf of patients into the electronic health record to include patient notes, release of health information, assessments and other medical documents acquired on behalf of the patient. Documents activities, service referrals, and outcomes achieved by patient in an effective manner.
5. Educates patient on the proper use of the Emergency Room and provides information for alternatives. Coaches’ patients in effective management of their health conditions and self-care. Assists patient in understanding care plans and instructions. Motivates patients to be active and engaged participants in their health and overall wellbeing.
6. Provides support and advocacy during emergency room visit or when necessary to assure patients medical needs and referrals required are being conveyed. Follows up with both patients and providers regarding health/social services plans.
7. Facilitates communication and coordinate services between providers and the patients. Coordinates and monitors services, including tracking of patients' compliance in relation to care plan objectives.
8. Obtain and document patient home medications, allergies and vital signs into the electronic health record.
9. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
10. Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
11. Knowledge of community agencies and resources.
12. Working knowledge of multi-system outreach programs related to health care delivery, clinical education, and health-related services.
13. Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate individual client care plans.
14. Knowledge of transportation and other barriers to care that may be encountered by patient.
15. Ability to communicate medical information to health care professionals and Registered Nurses.
16. Skill in use of personal computers and related software applications, including e-mail.
17. Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.

Education and Training Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED
• Certification as a Community Health Worker with the NM Department of Health
• BLS (America Heart Association) certification within 60 days of hire
• Experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified preferred.
• Proficient in computer skills such as Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Basic understanding of medical terminology preferred.
• Excellent public relations skills required; previous public contact/customer service experience preferred.
• Must be able to work effectively under periods of high stress.

NOTE: Job description available upon request.

**All required documents must be presented at time of hire.**