The Patient Educator serves the UNC Health Appalachian system to assess and identify patient care educational needs and will educate and instruct in medical processes. The Patient Educator will select and utilize teaching tools designed to assist the patient and family with a complete understanding of medical diagnosis. The Patient Educator will serve as a resource to staff and leaders to recommend best practices and educational methods designed to enhance the patient experience.

The Patient Educator integrates knowledge and skills with effective interactions to provide quality patient care and useful diagnostic information. Provides direct and indirect ways to communicate with those who need it, meeting the needs of each encounter, in-line with their scope. Decisions and actions with patients and families are determined in an ethical manner practicing compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and unique attributes of each person. Effectively communicates with patients/families, visitors, colleagues, physicians, leadership, and volunteers.

All areas of work are provided to achieve and maintain top-decile results and outcomes for patient experience, quality, and patient safety. All areas of work demonstrate the UNC Health Appalachian's Mission, Vision, and Values in action and approaches work in a way that reflects action, efficiency, and personal accountability. Demonstrates professional conduct, effective communication, and effective completion of tasks. Effectively and professionally manages working relationships with coworkers, physicians, and all UNC Health Appalachian team members in a way that promotes a healthy work environment. Responds quickly and accurately to emergencies in the work environment. Performs duties under direct supervision. Always assists coworkers, patients, families, and visitors regardless of the patient assignment, so long as the assistance is in-line with their scope.