Traditional Health Worker - Rural Health Transformation

Tillamook County•Tillamook, OR

18h•Hybrid

About The Position

This position is grant-funded and works with Tillamook County Wellness to improve access to healthcare, including Medicaid enrollment, community outreach and engagement, and support access to Maternal Child Health Services. The Traditional Health Worker (THW) is an employee of Tillamook County Health and Human Services Department (HHS), which includes the Community Health Center providing medical, behavioral, and dental services, as well as integrated Tillamook County Public Health and Environmental Health programs. HHS is a dynamic, fast-paced department serving diverse populations, and this position may work in either the primary care or public health sections. The THW provides high-quality, culturally responsive care by acting as a bridge between healthcare providers, public health, and patients/clients in their homes or community settings. THWs are respected community members who often share similar backgrounds and life experiences with those they serve. They provide person- and community-centered care, enhancing the appropriate use of healthcare by connecting individuals with medical and social services, advocating for patients, supporting adherence to treatments, and empowering individuals to improve their own health. The THW position aligns with the definitions in OAR 950-060-0000 and ORS 413.042, 414.035, and 414.665.

Requirements

High School diploma or equivalent.
One (1) year of experience in the THW field.
OR One (1) year of progressively responsible clinical, clerical, patient coordination, or patient supportive employment experience.
Lived experience in the assigned area of work is required for peer positions.
Peer Support Specialist must be certified prior to hire or eligible to be certified within 90 days of hire.
All other THW applicants must complete an approved THW course and be eligible for certification through the Oregon Health Authority within 12 months of hire.
Must possess a valid Oregon driver’s license and maintain an acceptable driving record.
Must pass a pre-employment criminal history background investigation.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual Spanish Required.
Ability to complete training and registration as a Traditional Health Worker with the State of Oregon within six (6) months of hire.
Knowledge of the community or communities being served and the available resources for families.
Skill in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with individuals and groups who come from diverse backgrounds and represent members of the public, coworkers, and/or vendors.
Skill in maintaining accurate and complete records.
Skill in providing instructions and communicating effectively, both orally and in writing, with individuals of varying backgrounds and abilities.
Skill in organizational tasks, including managing schedules and coordinating with other agencies for referrals and resource gathering.
Skill in active listening and allowing patients to prioritize their own goals.
Skill in advocating for patients who are receiving services.
Ability to provide timely, effective, and efficient customer service to citizens, clients, and other employees; and interact patiently with individuals making inquiries regarding various county programs and services who may have little, or no experience or knowledge of the services provided.
Ability to provide culturally responsive and linguistically appropriate services in a caring and compassionate manner.
Ability to use electronic health record system for documentation.
Ability to use an electronic referral system to make connections to community-based organizations through a closed loop referral.
Ability to carry out oral and written instructions and learn to perform health screening tests requiring simple math.
Ability to work efficiently and effectively under stressful or emergent situations.
Ability to work independently, adapt to changing responsibilities daily, and maintain motivation and efficiency.
Ability to communicate in a way that builds relationships, promotes health, and makes clients feel welcome.
Bilingual Spanish.

Responsibilities

Serve as a liaison between healthcare providers, public health programs, patients, and community organizations to ensure access to care and resources.
Provide education on health conditions, treatment plans, medications, and preventive measures in culturally sensitive ways.
Assist patients in understanding and managing chronic conditions, helping them adhere to care plans and medical or behavioral health instructions.
Offer emotional support and empowerment to patients, encouraging self-management of health and wellness.
Conduct home visits, health screenings, and follow-up calls to monitor patient progress and provide ongoing support.
Identify barriers to care, such as transportation, language, or financial challenges, and work with patients to find solutions.
Advocate for patients and connect them with community resources, social services, and health-related programs.
Collect data and document patient interactions, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with healthcare regulations.
Work one-on-one with patients in their homes, community and/or other settings.
Create referrals to community resources using the ConnectOregon referral platform and other systems.
Represent HHS at health fairs and other events.
Provide home or community visits for medical, dental, behavioral health, maternal child health, substance misuse, or public health services.
Work in a team environment with providers, nurses, and other HHS staff.
Support access to healthcare.
Assist in developmental and other screenings.
Conduct Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) screenings and provide referrals as needed.
Provide education related to chronic disease and/or other conditions.
Break down Care Plans into manageable steps and provide support to help patients achieve health goals.
Ensure patients have received appropriate care, services, treatment, and follow-up for their condition.
Documentation on multiple electronic platforms.
Assist with scheduling and convening virtual and telephonic visits when needed.
Listen actively and provide guidance in coordinating patient care and referrals.
Stay informed on communicable diseases and ensure patients receive proper education and resources.
Performs additional duties as assigned.