What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community Health Advocate/Survivor Advocate (75% Full Time, Variable Shifts)- Survivor Advocacy Program position at Adena Health?
The position of a hospital-based community health advocate provides resources and referrals for patients experiencing social health disparities. This position involves working closely with patients to address their social and economic needs. The advocate's primary responsibility is to connect patients with the appropriate resources and support systems to improve their overall health and well-being. The advocate will collaborate with healthcare professionals, social workers, and community organizations to identify patients who require assistance in accessing essential services. This may include individuals facing challenges related to housing, food insecurity, transportation, employment, education, and other social determinants of health. Additionally, the Community Health Advocate will have specialized training in working with and linking high-risk patients experiencing substance abuse and mental health concerns – ensuring their access to basic needs, safety planning, and harm reduction and linkage to ongoing support to end cycles of hazardous health activities. Overall, the hospital-based community health advocate plays a crucial role in addressing social health disparities by connecting patients with the resources needed to improve their overall health and well-being. They serve as a valuable support system for patients and work to ensure that they have access to the necessary services and programs to overcome social barriers to health. This Community Health Advocate reports directly to the Manager of Care Management.
Required Educational Degree: High School Diploma
Preferred Education: Associates Degree
Required Certifications: Community Health Worker within 12 months of hire
Preferred Certifications, Credentials and Licenses: Licensed Community Health Worker
Required Experience: 1 year of experience in Social Service or Health Care - providing direct services or care.
Preferred Experience: 3 years of experience in Social Service or Health Care providing direct services to those experiencing Substance Use Disorder or other social health disparities.
Job Essential Duties:
- Conduct screenings to identify patients' social needs, taking into account their unique circumstances, and challenges to develop individualized support plans that align with patients' goals
- Serves as a liaison between patients, medical care teams, community organizations, and other service providers. Advocating on behalf of patients to the medical care for desired health outcomes and connecting patients with community resources and programs that can address their specific needs.
- Provide patients with resources and referrals specific to their needs, the advocate will also offer ongoing support and guidance to patients throughout the continuum of care.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of patient interactions and referrals, ensuring that all necessary documentation is completed in a timely manner. Ensuring that patients receive the necessary services and that their progress is monitored.
- Participate in meetings and training to stay informed about available resources and best practices in addressing social health disparities – with specialized training in high-acuity social health disparities such as substance use and mental health navigation.
- Assist in conducting and distributing health education and related materials to patients, medical care teams, and community organizations -to raise awareness about various programs, and social health disparities, and promote healthy behaviors.
- Participate in community health outreach activities across the organization division to raise awareness and educate the community about social health disparities.
- Ensure all service and care is culturally specific to aid a range of diverse individuals with various demographics. This could include but not be limited to age, gender identity, ethnicity, limited english proficiency, sexual orientation, veterans, disabled, inmates, and/or those who are experiencing extreme poverty, substance use disorder, and /or mental health problems.
- Work within a CHW scope of practice in a hospital setting by providing non-medical support to caregivers and patients.
- Work an On-Site at ARMC.
