Disease Intervention Specialist (Hybrid) - Newport, TN 37821

STI•Newport, TN

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Disease Intervention Specialist (Hybrid) role is a contract position for up to 2 years, located in Newport, Tennessee. This role focuses on providing support and resources to individuals, particularly those facing substance use disorders and communicable diseases. The specialist will act as a RISE (Recovery, Information, Support, and Engagement) Navigator, conducting screenings, assessments, and providing crisis intervention and counseling. A key aspect of the role involves education and outreach to prevent overdose deaths and the spread of diseases like Hepatitis C and HIV, including distributing naloxone. The position also requires building and maintaining community partnerships, connecting clients to various services, and meticulous documentation. Team participation and other related tasks are also part of the responsibilities.

Requirements

Be at least age eighteen (18) or older.
At minimum, hold a high school diploma, General Equivalency Degree (GED) or equivalent.
Understanding and support for medication-assisted recovery practices.
Ability to develop and sustain relationships with individuals and organizations in the community.
Familiarity with community-based recovery support services in the service area.
Experience providing peer support and building effective relationships.
Strong commitment to treating all individuals with dignity and respect.
Proficient in active listening and asking supportive open-ended questions.
Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries.
Cultural competency and experience with diverse populations.
Strong customer service ethic.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
Possess a valid driver's license, vehicle, and proof of insurance.
Applicants agree to release all records involving their criminal history to the appointing authority.
All contract employees will undergo a background check prior to their start date.
If any records are identified, the applicant must provide written explanation and/or documentation within seven days.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual is preferred (Spanish and English).

Responsibilities

Conduct SUD screenings using validated tools, receive referrals, and perform evidence-based mental health and substance use disorder assessments.
Provide crisis intervention and solution-focused counseling both in and out of health department settings.
Deliver education aimed at preventing drug overdose deaths and the spread of communicable diseases, such as Hepatitis C and HIV.
Engage in outreach at non-traditional organizations to identify clients in need of services.
Distribute naloxone to clients.
Build and maintain partnerships with community resources, including Syringe Service Providers (SSPs), Regional Overdose Prevention Specialists (ROPs), mental health agencies, and treatment providers.
Foster linkages with other agencies in the assigned county/counties.
Connect clients to a range of services including community mental health, substance use treatment, harm reduction, primary health services, and recovery support services.
Disperse overdose education materials to clients and the public.
Complete detailed progress notes, track referrals, and enter information accurately into record systems.
Maintain records to comply with contract, state, grant, and agency requirements.
Attend team meetings, case conferences, and relevant training sessions to support continuous improvement initiatives and enhance service delivery.
Perform other related tasks as required to meet the needs of the community and uphold agency standards.