Community Health Worker

Bluestem Health•Lincoln, NE

About The Position

The Community Health Worker (CHW) helps patients and their families navigate and access community services and other resources, and supports them in adopting healthy behaviors. The CHW supports providers and support staff through an integrated approach to care management and community outreach. Activities promote, maintain, and improve the health of patients and their families. Within the scope of practice, the CHW provides social support, advocates for individuals and community health needs, and helps coordinate comprehensive care.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Experience working in a multicultural setting.
Basic computer skills required.
Ability to initiate and maintain positive working relationships with Bluestem Health staff and other organizations.
Understanding of the community served and community connectedness.
Good communication skills, including listening well and using language appropriately.
Ability and willingness to provide patients with emotional support, encouragement, and motivation.

Nice To Haves

Background in motivational interviewing or health coaching.
Written and oral fluency in Spanish and English.
One to two years of experience working in a community-based setting.
Knowledge of some medical terminology.
Experience with electronic medical records (EMR).

Responsibilities

Establish trusting relationships with patients and their families, providing general support and encouragement.
Provide ongoing follow-up, basic motivational interviewing, and goal setting with patients and families.
Follow up with patients by phone.
Refer patients to community agencies as appropriate.
Help patients connect with transportation resources and provide appointment reminders in special circumstances. Transporting patients is strictly prohibited.
Maintain effective working relationships and communication with patients, visitors, and staff, and communicate Bluestem Health’s mission.
Work closely with medical providers to help ensure comprehensive, coordinated patient care.
Cooperate with other clinical personnel assigned to the same patient.
Remain knowledgeable about community resources relevant to patients’ and families’ needs.
Communicate consistently with the care team to evaluate patient and family status and provide clear reports describing progress.
Act as a patient advocate and liaison between patients or families and community service agencies, including schools, DHHS, hospitals, and support groups.
Record patient care management information in the EMR and other software within 48 hours of patient contact.
Attend staff meetings, trainings, and other meetings as requested.
Manage an assigned caseload of patients.
Maintain HIPAA compliance at all times.
Perform other duties as assigned.