Peer Navigator, Street Medicine (Compton/Gardena, CA)

Healthcare in Action•Long Beach, CA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Peer Navigator supports members experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Compton/Gardena, California, helping them manage their health through education, peer support, housing and resource navigation, and shared experiences. This patient-facing field role uses a street medicine approach, delivering care directly to people experiencing homelessness. The Peer Navigator works under the supervision of a Social Worker to coordinate care and escalate cases appropriately, and supports Healthcare in Action’s goals, particularly housing placement for unsheltered members. The position is full-time, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with travel of 50% or more. Employees may be eligible for differential pay. A background check is required, and the job offer is contingent on providing proof of tuberculosis screening upon hire or proof of a negative screening within the last year.

Requirements

G.E.D. or high school education, required.
At least 3 years of relevant work experience, including direct work experience, lived experience, training, or volunteer work with people experiencing homelessness and people with active mental health or substance use conditions; relevant experience in similar community settings, including outreach or work with other disadvantaged groups, may also be considered.
Ability to work in a dynamic outdoor environment.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to organize effectively and prioritize multiple competing tasks.
Ability to communicate effectively, including articulating relevant personal experiences; excellent oral communication and strong interpersonal skills.
Reliable transportation.
Proficiency operating a computer and navigating multiple systems, such as online timesheets and call center software.
For travel of 50% or more: valid driver’s license, automobile insurance, reliable transportation, and a clean driving record.
Provide proof of tuberculosis screening upon hire or proof of a negative screening within the last year, subject to the stated accommodation process.
Pass a background check.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree, with 2 years of relevant work experience.
Bachelor’s degree, with 1–2 years of relevant work experience.
Experience with HMIS/Coordinated Entry System.

Responsibilities

Build rapport with members by communicating relevant personal experiences to encourage positive behavior changes.
Coach members to create and implement strategies that reduce risks associated with identified health conditions and behaviors.
Connect members to programs that address barriers to care and improve compliance.
Link members to local, county, and state services and resources.
Follow up with members and advocate for them, including delivering medications and other supplies as needed.
Coordinate or accompany members to medical and social services appointments outside the street medicine unit.
Introduce tools that promote self-management and self-efficacy.
Complete required organization- and health plan-specific documentation promptly, including patient touch points and encounter notes, member health risks, and Plan of Care updates in the electronic health record.
Document required information in the care management system during member phone calls.
Complete and submit a Monthly Audit Checklist assessment and individual care plans, and update member profiles in the Coordinated Entry System/HMIS.
Occasionally drive the medically equipped van.
Schedule encounters according to member acuity using Healthcare in Action’s electronic health record system.
Work under a Social Worker’s supervision to ensure appropriate case escalation and care coordination.
Support Healthcare in Action’s vision and goals, particularly housing placement for unsheltered members.
Perform other duties as assigned.