Community Health Worker- Full Time

POSITION:                           COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER

DEPARTMENT:                  RURAL HEALTH

FLSA STATUS:                    NON-EXEMPT


Please read this job description carefully to ensure that you understand its contents, the job requirements, and expectations before signing this document.

JOB SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Rural Health Clinic Non-Clinical Director the Community Health Worker will serve as a vital link between the community and healthcare providers, assisting individuals and families in navigating healthcare services, improving health outcomes, and promoting wellness.

JOB RELATIONSHIPS:
Responsible to: Rural Health Clinic Non-Clinical Director
            Positions Directly Supervised: None
            Regular Contact with: All Rural Health personnel, Physicians, and the public.

MISSION STATEMENT:
As an integral part of our community, Franklin Medical Center’s mission is to provide the highest quality health care and customer satisfaction to all those we serve. We are committed to delivering compassionate, capable, and personalized treatment to our patients and their families, always keeping in mind that our responsibility is to the health needs of the people.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Engage with community members to provide education on health-related topics, preventative care, and available services. Promote health literacy and encourage individuals to utilize healthcare resources effectively.
2. Assist patients in accessing healthcare services, including scheduling appointments/follow-ups, completing community care referral forms, navigating insurance, and following up on medical treatments. Provide support to patients to ensure continuity of care.
3. Answer, screen, and forward incoming calls. Record messages and forward them to the appropriate person. Provide basic and accurate information in-person and via phone/email.
4. Assist with registering patients such as entering and/or scanning patient information into the computer system, ensuring that patient information is up to date, and collecting copays, deductible, etc.
5. Conduct basic health screenings, including blood pressure, glucose, and other relevant checks. Refer patients to appropriate medical professionals for follow-up as needed.
6. Act as an advocate for patients by addressing barriers to care, such as transportation, language, or financial challenges. Support patients in understanding their rights and available community resources.
7. Collect and document patient data, track outcomes, and provide regular reports to the Non-Clinical RHC Director. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records as required by regulations and facility standards.
8. Work closely with healthcare providers, social workers, and community organizations to ensure patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.
9. Attend and participate in team meetings and training sessions as required.
10. Organize and participate in health fairs, workshops, and other outreach activities aimed at improving community health and awareness.
11. Acts as a Rural Health Clinic LPN as directed by the supervisor
12. Assists with triage and performing assessments such as recording vital signs and height/weight
13. Attend off-campus events/activities via reliable transportation (e.g. personal vehicle).
14. Properly use and maintain all office equipment in the work area.
15. Adhere to all clinic infection control, hazardous waste, and pharmacy protocols
16. Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Certifications, and Licensures:
High school diploma or equivalent is required.  Graduate of an accredited Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Medical Assistant (MA) program with an active Louisiana LPN license or MA certification. Certificate in community health or related field preferred. Must be willing to obtain Community Health Worker certification within a specified period after employment. Must have reliable transportation to attend off campus events/activities. CPR certification is required.

Work Experience:
Prior experience in community health, social services, or healthcare is preferred, but not required.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR)
• Ability to read and write effectively
• Ability to multitask and manage time effectively when completing several tasks at once
• Strong organizational skills
• Maintain confidentiality of patient and company information
• Strong customer service skills; ability to engage and support diverse populations
• Interpersonal skills and compassion
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Proficient with computers and ability to learn computer software

Physical Requirements: 
 

• Remain in a stationary position for long periods of time
• Occasionally move about the office and facility to access file cabinets, office machinery, various departments, and patient care areas, etc.
• Position self to maintain files in file cabinets, maintain equipment provide patient care, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office machinery such as computer printers, scanner, etc.
• Ability to communicate information accurately so others will understand
• Ability to observe details at close range
• Ability to move boxes, equipment, etc. and assist with moving/handling patients up to 20 pounds for various needs

OSHA EXPOSURE CATEGORY A:     
Has exposure to blood borne pathogens.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT:
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sex, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.