Community Health Worker

Summary of Responsibilities:

The Community Health Worker (CHW) is an advocate and facilitator for patients and families to gain access to comprehensive health care services. To provide a continuum of services through health education, case finding, referral, follow-up, and provision of support services. Works closely with Perkins Family Clinic care teams to provide care coordination, connection to resources, and provide support to patients to help improve overall health outcomes and general well-being through education, outreach, and coordination of care and services. Works in clinical settings and community-based settings that may include patients’ homes. CHW may also seek certification as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist, where/when applicable if self-disclosed as current or former consumer of mental health or substance abuse services with at least two years of mental health or substance abuse recovery.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist patients in their homes, community, or clinic setting per program guidelines. Communicates to patients the purposes of the program and the impact it may have on their wellbeing.
• Complete intake and documents on all patient encounters, keeps accurate patient records, maintains confidentiality, and respects patients’ privacy.
• Assist in identifying gaps in care and the coordination of care with care teams to help identify any issues that affect patients’ overall health. Will work with care teams to develop health/social goals and care plans based on findings.
• Serve as a culturally informed liaison between patients and community healthcare systems.
• Provide culturally appropriate and accurate health education to patients, families, organizations, and communities to increase health literacy in the community and promote healthy behaviors.
• Coach patients in effective management of their chronic health conditions, wellness, and self-care. Assist patients in understanding care plans and instructions. Motivates patients to be active and engaged in their health and overall well-being.
• Provide support and advocacy during medical visits when necessary to assure patients’ medical needs and referrals required are being conveyed. Follows up with both patients and the care team.
• Provide or arrange transportation services and/or medication deliveries for patients following the programs policies and procedures.
• Complete and submit monthly reports to supervisor.
• Performs miscellaneous other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• GED or High School Diploma
• Bachelors level degree preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess good moral character.
• Ability to work as a team member.
• Strong decision making and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to respond appropriately in a crisis or emergency.
• Ability to provide culturally competent care.
• Ability to administer first aid.
• Ability to drive and transport patients.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and sit on the floor.
• Occasional lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Knowledge and understanding of policies and procedures.

Certifications:

• Valid Driver’s License and Insurance.
• CPR/First Aid/AED certification within 6 months of employment.
• Peer Recovery Support Specialist Certification within 6 months of employment (if applicable).

Conditions of Employment:

The Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma operates a drug-free workplace.

• Must submit to and pass applicable drug test, TB test, and Physical.
• Must pass background investigations for suitability of character identified in accordance with the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act.
• Must have a valid Oklahoma driver’s license
• Hepatitis A&B, Tdap, MMR, and Varicella vaccinations, proof of previous vaccinations or proof of positive titer.