Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS)

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Cleburne, TX

8d • Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the HIV/STD Program Supervisor, the Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) conducts comprehensive HIV/STD prevention, intervention, and surveillance activities according to established Texas laws, rules, and regulations. Maintains confidentiality in all aspects of duties. Conducts HIV/STD interviews and investigations following DIS performance standards. Enters data into the TB, HIV, and STD Integrated System (THISIS). Completes epidemiological and non-epidemiological documentation. Performs venipuncture. Establishes and maintains relationships with local health care agencies, health care providers, laboratories, correctional facilities, and other organizations to facilitate HIV/STD screening, diagnosis/treatment, and reporting in the region. Promotes the agency and maintains a good working relationship with internal and external stakeholders. Must be able to independently travel throughout the State of Texas and out-of-state to complete essential job functions. Member of the Incident Command Structure in response to public health emergencies. Must comply with HHS, DSHS, and Texas Department of Public Safety applicable policies/procedures/standards. This position is office-based, Monday-Friday, 8:00 – 5:00 pm.

Requirements

• Must possess a valid Class C Texas driver’s license, or equivalent from another state, reflecting an acceptable driving record following Fleet Operations and Management & Procedures.
• Obtain a Phlebotomy certification within six months of employment.
• Knowledge of: HIV/STD disease process, public health intervention principals and processes, and program management; HIV/STD testing, treatment, and reporting policies, guidelines, and laws; OSHA Blood-borne Pathogens Standard for infection control and bio-hazard waste management; rules and regulations regarding the mailing of bio-hazardous specimens; current social, economic and public health programs; minority health issues, and confidentiality laws and HIPAA guidelines.
• Skills in: clear, effective oral and written communication with diverse audiences; organizing and writing reports using standard English grammar and a professional/business writing style; educating small groups and individuals; data entry and word processing and developing and maintaining effective working relationships across organizational, community and cultural lines.
• Ability to: understand and interpret public health laws, policies, and regulations; work in a team setting in close collaboration with others; work effectively with diverse populations; work independently exercising sound judgment; work within a multi-disciplinary team, using tact/diplomacy and assertive communication skills; perform (or be trained to perform) venipuncture to obtain certification and use time management strategies to maximize work productivity and meet deadlines.
• Computer experience and working knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
• Documented work experience in public health, community-based work, population-based initiatives, or community coalition programs.
• At least an associate degree with major coursework in public health, or a related field required.
• The application documents the ability to travel 85% of the time to complete essential job functions.

Nice To Haves

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in public health, or a related field preferred.
• Certified Health Education Specialist is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Conducts interviews, re-interviews, and cluster interviews of HIV/STD patients following the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) DIS performance standards.
• Performs partner and cluster elicitation.
• Identifies screening opportunities.
• Interprets and follows all laws, requirements, and guidelines regarding HIV/STD Program procedures.
• Conducts case management activities and completes forms accurately and within established time frames.
• Accurately enters cases into THISIS following established standards.
• Identifies, pursues, collects, and analyzes the information needs of each case.
• Develop a case management plan for each case to enhance disease intervention outcomes.
• Documents case management activities and conducts updates weekly.
• Conducts field investigation activities following DSHS DIS performance standards.
• Conducts partner notification.
• Consults with local agencies, private physicians, and individuals to ensure rapid and confidential examination, treatment, and services for clients.
• Consults with labs, hospitals, correctional facilities, and other institutions regarding their HIV/STD reporting requirements.
• Provide education regarding laws and rules that protect public health and ensure safety in the region.
• Performs venipuncture in the field, as outlined in the performance standards.
• Documents field investigation activities appropriately.
• Conducts HIV/STD surveillance activities.
• Conducts follow-up with health care providers, laboratories, and health care agencies to identify cases and ensure timely treatment/diagnosis and reporting.
• Establish and maintain professional liaisons to provide HIV/STD reporting.
• Participates in regional assignments/duties/special initiatives.
• May be required to work other than normal business hours to respond to public health emergencies; actively participate and/or serve in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response/recovery/Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation- requires completion of at least ICS 100,200, 700 and 800 and may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
• Maintain compliance with DSHS Policy, Fleet Operations, management and Procedures and Standards, and a current valid Texas Driver's License.

Benefits

• insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree