Latino Patient Navigator BIDMC working with oncology patients

Beth Israel Lahey Health

71d•$25 - $38•Onsite

About The Position

The Patient Navigator for the Latino community will guide patients and their families through the oncology health care system, with special attention to the cultural concerns and needs of that population. Working with both newly diagnosed patients and those that have established care at BIDMC, the Patient Navigator will identify barriers to care, assist with access issues, develop relationships with the Cancer Center staff, keep communication open with staff, patients, and caregivers to coordinate services within the Cancer Center, at outside facilities, and within the community. The navigator will maintain up-to-date information about community resources, support groups and programs that support Latino cancer patients and their families. The navigator will track how patients are helped and will use information to help oncology leadership to develop and maintain programs and services. This position will also provide Community Resource Support for other patients being seen in the oncology department.

Requirements

High School diploma or GED required.
1-3 years related work experience required.
Bilingual in Spanish.
Experience working in medical settings and interacting collaboratively with healthcare teams.
Thorough knowledge of health care systems.
Knowledge of medical terminology.
Knowledgeable about the breadth and accessibility of community resources, including those that pertain to the Latino community.
Ability to prioritize workload, handle multiple tasks and to work independently with limited supervision.
Excellent verbal and written communication, as well as active listening skills.
Strong customer service, problem solving, relationship building and advocacy skills.
Must possess ability to maintain a calm, professional demeanor in stressful situation.
Experience with computer systems required, including web based applications and some Microsoft Office applications which may include Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint or Access.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Nursing, or Health related field preferred.
Experience working with oncology patients and families.
Experience in community outreach is desirable.
Compassionate, articulate and patient.
Demonstrated self-starter with the ability to use sound judgment and work in a fast paced environment.
Detail oriented.

Responsibilities

Engages cancer patients and families and makes them aware of information, resources, support programs and services.
Assists in helping patients to access culturally appropriate, supportive care.
Develops and maintains cooperative relationships with the social work and Cancer Center professional staff to ensure communication and smooth handoffs as patients move through the system.
Refers patients with specifically identified needs to oncology social workers, nursing, or other multidisciplinary Cancer Center staff.
Assists patients to find local housing.
Works cooperatively with community housing and lodging groups with an emphasis on Hope Lodge, Hospitality Homes and BIDMC Social Work Department lodging lists.
Identifies gaps in resources and barriers to care.
Works with SW leadership and community groups to bridge those gaps.
Contributes to the updating and maintenance of on-line and print resource guides.
Maintains accurate, confidential records documenting numbers of patients served, services provided and unmet needs.
Maintains patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
May perform other duties, as assigned.