Benefits Navigator

Equitas Health•Mansfield, OH

About The Position

The Prevention Health Navigator implements health navigation services at Equitas Health. The role organizes and conducts program activities, including recruitment and outreach, screening and enrollment, assessment, and coordination of referrals to other service providers. The navigator also provides client-centered HIV test counseling to people voluntarily seeking HIV testing, delivers community education about Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and linkage to care, and enrolls eligible participants in programming. The position promotes the independence, stability, and health of people at high risk of acquiring HIV and people living with HIV/AIDS through culturally competent health navigation services. The role supports people living with HIV in remaining engaged in HIV medical care and maintaining viral suppression. It helps clients understand and access insurance and public benefit options, complete applications, assemble supporting documents, and submit applications to the appropriate agencies. The navigator documents and tracks applications, advocates for clients with government offices when needed, and identifies issues requiring referral to specialists. The position involves client and community engagement, collaboration with internal teams and external partners, and participation in supervision, training, and outreach activities.

Requirements

Associate degree and at least one year of relevant experience; or completed coursework toward an associate degree and at least two years of relevant experience; or high school diploma/GED and at least three years of relevant experience.
Sensitivity to, interest in, and competence with cultural differences, HIV/AIDS, minority health, and sexual practices.
Demonstrated competence working with people of color and gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and general computer applications.
Valid Ohio driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Knowledge of and adherence to social work standards and ethics.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field, or equivalent.
Medical and/or insurance-related experience.
Experience in community-based services, housing services, case management services, or prevention services.

Responsibilities

Provide navigation and support to people living with HIV to help them remain in HIV medical care and maintain viral suppression.
Refer clients to HIV screening programs, linkage-to-care coordinators, re-engagement specialists, HIV medical and community-based mental health providers, and Ryan White case managers.
Build positive working relationships with clients.
Screen clients for insurance options and help eligible clients apply for Federal Marketplace coverage, Medicaid, Medicare, and HIV/AIDS-specific public benefits, including the Ohio AIDS Drug Assistance Program and Ryan White Part A and Part B.
Explain available Federal Marketplace and public insurance options, including plan affordability, cost-sharing structures, and consumer rights.
Help eligible clients complete applications, obtain supporting documentation, and file applications with the appropriate agencies.
Acquire and maintain certification as a Federally Qualified Health Insurance Navigator.
Document and track applications and submissions.
Advocate for clients with government offices as needed and identify matters requiring referral to other specialists.
Complete required training, invoices, and other duties promptly and in accordance with standard operating procedures.
Collaborate with internal colleagues and external community stakeholders, including government offices and community partners.
Participate in community outreach events as appropriate to support programs and Equitas Health services.
Participate in at least one hour of biweekly supervision and one hour of group supervision per month.
Use email, Microsoft Teams, phone, and other telecommunications options to participate in meetings across sites.
Demonstrate ongoing growth aligned with Equitas Health values, including respect for diversity, inclusion, and cultural humility.
Perform other duties related to the position as assigned by the supervisor.
Travel and use reliable transportation to meet clients.
Use a computer for typing, research, meetings, assessments, and other work supporting client outcomes.