Community Health Worker

Government of the Virgin Islands

About The Position

Under the immediate supervision of the Administrator and Head Nurse of the Community Health Clinic, the Community Health Worker is a front-line public health worker who performs paraprofessional duties to engage, support, advocate for, and educate community members about overall wellness and the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. The role works closely with medical providers, primary care teams, and other agencies to improve patient care outcomes. The position provides health information and support through community outreach, group education sessions, individual encounters, and home visits. It helps clients navigate health and social services, manage chronic conditions, and participate actively in their care. Work involves planning, collaboration, care coordination, and the use of sound independent judgment to set priorities and meet deadlines. Work is sedentary with light physical effort, primarily in an air-conditioned office setting, and occasionally requires non-traditional work hours.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least one year of experience in community work, education, health care, or a related field, including community-based advocacy and support experience gained through employment, internship, or volunteer work.
Valid Virgin Islands driver’s license.
Knowledge of local population demographics, assets, and needs; community health disparities and strategies for reducing disparities and barriers to healthcare access; departmental rules and procedures; client rights and medical record documentation requirements; human relations; and legal, ethical, and professional conduct.
Knowledge of community health clinic programs, practices, operations, functions, policies, and procedures.
Ability to operate a personal computer and basic software required for clinical programming and reporting.
Ability to protect privacy and maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA.
Ability to organize and manage time, expand knowledge of community resources and services, manage new or unusual situations, support behavior change, follow instructions, incorporate feedback, and demonstrate empathy and respect.
Ability to speak and write clearly and concisely and prepare administrative reports.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual ability in English, Spanish, and/or French-based Creole.

Responsibilities

Provide health information through community outreach, group health education sessions, individual encounters, and home visits to assess clients’ health-related needs and concerns.
Reduce stigma and barriers to initiating or continuing care by providing culturally and linguistically competent, reliable information.
Help clients develop health management plans and goals.
Assist clients in accessing health-related services, including obtaining and appropriately using a medical home and overcoming barriers to medical care and social services.
Coach clients in managing chronic health conditions and self-care to promote behavior change.
Motivate clients to take an active role in their health and in the healthcare system.
Attend and participate in team meetings.
Assist clients with forms and medical or social paperwork.
Help clients use available resources, including scheduling appointments and completing applications for eligible programs.
Advocate to address health disparities at individual and community levels.
Perform other related duties.