HCV Peer Health Navigator

SRCHC•Toronto, ON

2d•CA$48,838 - CA$50,349•Onsite

About The Position

South Riverdale Community Health Centre is a non-profit, multi-service organization that provides primary healthcare, social and community outreach services with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention primarily to people of East Toronto. Our mission is to improve the lives of people that face barriers to physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being. We do so by meaningfully engaging our clients and communities, ensuring equitable access to primary health care and delivering quality care through a range of evidence informed programs, services and approaches. As a leader in community health, our locally and internationally recognized community services include cutting-edge primary health services, health promotion, harm reduction, environmental health, community food centre and population-based community programs for marginalized peoples. We value health equity and inclusion and respect in our work and in the delivery of our services. The HCV Peer Health Navigator is a lived-experience role working within a research project evaluating whether opt-out hepatitis C (HCV) testing in the Emergency Department (ED) coupled with enhanced linkage-to-care is effective. The project aims to identify people living with hepatitis C, connect them to community-based care, and improve access to treatment. This position draws upon lived experience with HCV to help people move from diagnosis to treatment and ongoing care. This role will provide peer support, help clients navigate the healthcare system, connect them with resources, and reduce barriers that may prevent them from accessing care. Working closely with the healthcare and research teams, this role will help strengthen community-based connections to care, improve patient navigation, support a coordinated model of care between the hospital and community, and help ensure people receive the services they need after leaving the Emergency Department. This position is expected to work across locations in East Toronto, is expected to work evenings and weekends and onsite.

Requirements

Graduate from Peer training program or equivalent
Engagement in the TCHCP or other peer training programs
Lived Experience of HCV
Must be able to walk and stand for extended periods
Basic knowledge of email, internet and computer use
Excellent Knowledge and practice of Harm Reduction including substance use resources and supports
Knowledge of HCV/HIV
Experience in navigating systems and advocating for illicit drug users rights / needs (including the criminal justice system, medical and hospital systems, mental health systems, traditional drug treatment systems, etc.)
Respect for diversity, including sexual orientation, gender, race, ability drug use and sex work
Respect for equity, anti-racism and accessibility with the ability to work collaboratively and positively with others
Demonstrated sensitivity to others
Ability to function as a member of a team
Good communication and listening skills
Open to feedback
Good organizational, coordination and interpersonal skills
Confident in establishing connections and maintaining strong boundaries
Ability to prevent and de-escalate conflicts
Ability to be punctual and work consistent hours
Police clearance documentation will be required for employment
Proof of double COVID-19 vaccination status will be required for employment

Responsibilities

Support members through testing results, living with HCV and/or assessing and sustaining treatment for HCV
Use lived experience with HCV to build trusting relationships, provide peer support, reduce stigma, and encourage clients throughout their care journey
Provide education about HCV, treatment options, harm reduction, and prevention to help clients make informed decisions
Support clients in navigating the healthcare system by helping with appointments, preparing for visits, accompanying clients when appropriate, and encouraging ongoing engagement in care
Connect clients with healthcare providers and community services, including housing, mental health, substance use, food, financial, and other social supports.
Help clients overcome barriers to care by providing advocacy, practical support, and referrals to appropriate services
Conduct regular follow-up with clients through phone, text, hospital, or community visits to provide ongoing support and encourage treatment completion
Document client interactions, maintain confidentiality, and work collaboratively with healthcare providers, researchers, and community partners as part of the care team
Maintain appropriate boundaries
Act as a role model for program clients
Attend meetings and trainings
Attend regular supervisory/support meetings
All other duties as required