Community Health Worker

Regional Council of Governments for the COAAA•Columbus, OH

6d•$25 - $0•Hybrid

About The Position

The Maternal/Infant Health Community Health Worker (CHW) serves as a bridge between at risk pregnant and postpartum mothers and the healthcare system to help ensure essential medical care and support services are received to promote healthy pregnancies, safe deliveries, and healthy infant development during the critical first year of life. A CHW will bridge care gaps by conducting home visits, providing education on maternal health and infant development, and connecting families to essential medical and social resources.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Active Ohio Community Health Worker Certification.
1 year of experience in social services, case management support, or healthcare coordination.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation with proof of insurance.
Strong knowledge of Social Drivers of Health (SDoH) and their impact on maternal and infant health outcomes.
Strong knowledge of local community resources and available support services.
Skill in establishing and maintaining effective interpersonal relationships.
Skill in providing compassionate, empathetic support to individuals and families from at risk populations.
Ability to use Microsoft Office and case management computer systems.
Ability to work independently while managing time and priorities.
Ability to communicate effectively and build trust with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment when handling sensitive or confidential information.
Ability to accurately prepare and maintain reports, records, and forms.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to travel to clients' homes, community centers, and other service locations.

Responsibilities

Assists individuals in navigating the healthcare system, accessing prenatal and postpartum care, and obtaining essential services and resources, including Medicaid enrollment, WIC benefits, and infant safety supplies.
Identifies and helps reduce risk factors, addresses Social Drivers of Health (SDoH), and promotes continuity of prenatal care to support healthy pregnancies and deliveries.
Determines individuals’ eligibility for financial assistance, insurance coverage, and other support programs, and refers individuals to appropriate community resources and partner agencies.
Meets with clients, family members, and/or caregivers regarding plans to address the needs of the mother during pregnancy and after delivery.
Provides ongoing support and follow up through motivational interviewing, goal setting, and other client centered coaching techniques.
Serves as a trusted liaison for mothers and caregivers by conducting home visits, providing education and resources related to maternal health and fetal and infant development, and connecting families with essential community services.
Conducts regular home and/or community visits to provide guidance regarding safe sleep practices, breastfeeding, infant wellness, and maternal mental health, including postpartum depression screenings.
Provides encouragement and support to promote healthy behaviors and positive maternal and infant health outcomes.
Identifies prospective clients within the community who may benefit from program services.
Advocates for equitable access to healthcare and community resources to help reduce health disparities and improve maternal and infant outcomes.
Maintains regular communication with mothers and their designated representatives through telephone outreach in accordance with program requirements and established timeframes.
Documents client encounters, tracks health metrics, and maintains accurate records in compliance with all program, grant, and agency requirements.
Completes required reports, forms, and other documentation necessary to support program operations and performance measurement.