Community Health Worker

Job Description

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Community Health Worker (CHW) is the foundation of the Pathways to Better Health Program (PBH). This culturally and geographically connected individual serves as a link between underserved communities and existing community resources. Through home visiting, this individual assists clients in overcoming barriers to health, social services, education and employment.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES:

1. Uses the Pathways to Better Health protocol for care coordination activities at all times.

2. Assists clients in their homes, community, or clinic setting. Communicates to clients the purposes of the program and the impact it may have on their wellbeing.

3. Documents all client encounters and contacts made on behalf of clients; completes and submits monthly reports; maintains comprehensive electronic client files, which include client notes, release of information, assessments and other documents acquired on behalf of the client. Enters information into database in a timely manner.

4. Secures information such as medical, psychological and social factors contributing to client’s situation and develops health/social management plans and goals.

5. Advocates for clients and acts as a liaison between client and other service providers.

6. Provides support and advocacy to assure clients' needs and referrals required are being conveyed. Follows up with both clients and providers regarding health/social services plans.

7. Facilitates communication and coordinate services between providers and the clients.

8. Continuously expands knowledge and understanding of community resources and services. Facilitates client access to community resources, including locating housing, food, clothing, prenatal classes, parenting, and providers to teach life skills, and relevant mental health services. Assists clients in utilizing community services, including scheduling appointments with social services agencies and assisting with completion of applications for programs for which they may be eligible.

9. Determines client’s eligibility for services such as financial assistance, insurances and other programs in place to assist individuals and refers client to community resources and other agencies to meet identified needs.

10. Review progress and barriers towards goals, strategize solutions, and adjust care plans with clinical professionals and peers. Performs appropriate follow-up activities as directed.

11. Travels regularly to client homes, community locations, various agencies, and other outreach destinations.

12. Manage assigned caseload of clients

13. Other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Education: Applicant must possess a High School Diploma or equivalent. Community Health Worker certification is preferred, but not required at time of hire.

Experience: Prefer applicants with experience in social service, advocacy, or public health system. Knowledge about local community resources.

Skills: Excellent organizational, writing and communication skills; data entry experience; proficient in Microsoft Office programs. Applicant must have a valid driver’s license and transportation to travel throughout area.

Working Conditions: The work environment varies. When in the office, safe work practices in regard to office equipment, avoiding trips/falls and fire regulations are required. When traveling to or spending time at client homes, exposure to unusual, unpleasant or hazardous environments increase. Exposure to unpleasant odors, loud noises, extreme temperatures and unclean living conditions is likely.

Temperament/Soft Skills: Must have a good sense of humor and an ability to get along with a wide variety of people; Must be comfortable navigating a spectrum of personality types and communication preferences; Must be comfortable taking initiative but also acting in a supporting role.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

N/A

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Must successfully complete Community Health Worker certification and enroll in the Michigan Medicaid CHW Registry within 1 year of employment.

This is an at-will, hourly, full-time, and non-exempt position.

Ingham Health Plan Corporation is a community based non-profit in Lansing Michigan. Our mission is to help connect people to community resources to improve their health.

Company Description

Ingham Health Plan Corporation is a community based non-profit in Lansing Michigan. Our mission is to help connect people to community resources to improve their health.