Resource Coordinator - Social Work OP - Days- FT - Orange

University of California, Irvine•Orange, CA

36d

About The Position

Under the auspices of UCI Health’s Ambulatory Clinical Social Work team, the Resource Coordinator will be based in the Emergency Department and support real-time identification, engagement, and follow-up for patients presenting with substance use disorders (SUDs) and co-occurring behavioral health needs. The coordinator facilitates access to evidence-based treatment, with an emphasis on low-threshold entry to medication for addiction treatment (MAT) and harm reduction strategies. The role includes proactive outreach and screening, brief initial assessments, coordination with MAT programs and outpatient clinics, and ongoing patient support through early recovery. This Coordinator will promote equitable, non-stigmatizing care in the Emergency Department and assist patients in connecting to residential treatment programs and bridging gaps in social care needs of vulnerable patients. This position also supports the real-time resource response required under SB 963, including coordination of basic needs and safety-related referrals.

Requirements

Understanding that abstinence-based behavioral programs that discourage MAT are not evidence-based.
Understanding of substance use disorder (SUD) as a medical condition and MAT (Medication for Addiction Treatment) as an evidence-based treatment model.
Strong interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage patients respectfully and in culturally responsive ways.
Skill to communicate and interact effectively and pleasantly with colleagues, faculty, students, and community leaders, from multiple cultures.
Possible weekend and evening hours
Nonjudgmental, energetic, positive, harm-reduction approach to assisting patients with SUD with respect for patient confidentiality and privacy.
Interest / proficiency in working with individuals recently released from incarceration, homeless individuals, and other marginalized populations.
Greater than 2 years of data science research and/or work experience.
Flexibility, adaptability, and resilience in a clinical setting with shifting priorities.
Demonstrated understanding of SB 963 requirements related to basic needs, victim services, and closed-loop referrals for high-risk patients in emergency settings.
Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field required
Ability to work in a dynamic environment of rapidly changing priorities and frequent interruptions.
Ability to use electronic health records and standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Outlook); willingness to learn internal data and documentation systems.
Ability to analyze and take action on complex matters, documents, and tasks. Ability to take the initiative and independently respond to requests in writing, in person, or over telephone.

Nice To Haves

Strong documentation skills, including data entry, file organization, and written communication.
Preference for applicants with connections to and reflecting the diversity of the local community.
Ability to communicate in languages spoken in the local community is a plus.

Responsibilities

Proactive outreach and screening
Brief initial assessments
Coordination with MAT programs and outpatient clinics
Ongoing patient support through early recovery
Promote equitable, non-stigmatizing care in the Emergency Department
Assist patients in connecting to residential treatment programs and bridging gaps in social care needs of vulnerable patients
Supports the real-time resource response required under SB 963, including coordination of basic needs and safety-related referrals.