POSITION SUMMARY:

The Community Health Worker (CHW) is responsible for helping patients and their families to navigate and access community services, and other resources, and adopt healthy behaviors. The Wellness Department CHW supports providers and the Case Managers through an integrated approach to care management and community outreach. As a priority, activities will promote, maintain, and improve the health of patients and their families. CHW provides social support and informal counseling, and advocates for individuals and community health needs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responsible for establishing trusting relationships with patients and their families while providing general support and encouragement.
• Provide ongoing follow-up, basic motivational interviewing, and goal-setting with patients/families.
• Follow–up with patients via phone calls, home visits, and visits to other settings where patients can be found.
• Help patients set personal health-related goals and attend appointments.
• Provide referrals for services to community agencies as appropriate.
• Help patients connect with transportation resources and provide appointment reminders in special circumstances.
• Work closely with medical providers and the case management team to help ensure that patients have comprehensive and coordinated care plans.
• Knowledgeable about community resources appropriate to the needs of patients/families.
• Responsible for providing consistent communication to the Case Manager to evaluate patient/family status, ensuring that provided information, and reports clearly describe progress.
• Act as a patient advocate and liaison between the patient/family and community service agencies.
• Record patient care management information in the EMR and other software no later than 24 hours after patient contact.
• Attend regular staff meetings, trainings, and other meetings, as requested.
• Manage an assigned caseload of patients.

• Maintain HIPPA compliance at all times.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience working in a community-based setting for at least 1 to 2 years, is preferred.
• Basic computer skills are required, and electronic medical record (EMR) experience is preferred.
• Good communication skills, such as listening well, and using language appropriately.
• Ability and willingness to provide emotional support, encouragement, and motivation to patients.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

• High school graduate or equivalent required
• Degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field preferred
• Successful completion of a Community Health Worker formal training program such as from a college or other education institution is preferred or willing to complete upon hire