COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER- Full-Time- Grant Funded

The Community Health Worker (CHW) plays a key role in supporting the health system’s community health initiatives that align with the organization’s mission to improve the health and quality of life for the communities we serve. The CHW serves as a bridge between the health system and the community, helping individuals and families access healthcare services, social resources, and preventive care.

Working as part of the Centra healthcare team, the CHW works closely with providers and caregivers to offer comprehensive and coordinated care. The CHW identifies social determinants of health (SDOH) needs, connects patients to appropriate services and resources, and promotes healthy behaviors through outreach, education and community engagement. The CHW acts as a patient advocate by addressing the social determinants that impact patient outcomes and overall health.

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Patient & Community Support
•    Screen patients for social determinants of health (SDOH) and other health risk factors using standardized screening tools in collaboration with the healthcare team.
•    Assist individuals in navigating healthcare systems, including scheduling medical appointments, enrolling in insurance programs, and understanding care plans.
•    Provide health education and support on topics such as chronic disease prevention, nutrition, and medication adherence.
•    Help patients overcome barriers to care by connecting them to community resources such as food assistance, housing support, transportation services, and mental health counseling.
Community Outreach & Event Participation
•    Represent the health system at health fairs, community events, and outreach programs to provide education and connect individuals to available services.
•    Conduct community-based visits to engage individuals who may have difficulty accessing traditional healthcare services.
•    Build relationships with local organizations, faith-based groups, schools, and public health agencies to enhance referral networks and support systems.
Electronic Health Records (EHR) & Activity Tracking
•    Document patient encounters, referrals, and follow-ups in the electronic health record (EHR) system accurately and in a timely manner.
•    Maintain activity logs and reports to track outreach efforts, patient referrals, and health outcomes.
•    Collaborate with primary care teams, care coordinators, and social workers to coordinate patient care and resource referrals.
CHW Training & Certification
•    Complete Community Health Worker (CHW) training and certification as required by the state or health system.
•    Stay informed about best practices in community health, patient advocacy, and health equity.

•    Participate in continuing education and professional development opportunities to maintain CHW certification and enhance skills.

Other Functions:
•    Performs other duties as assigned.
 

Supervisory Responsibilities:
•    None

Salary Range: $24.39 - $35.36 / Hour
 

Required Qualifications:
Required Education: Associate degree required or 10 years experience as Community Health Worker and is presently CHW certified. 
Required Certification: Completion of an approved CHW training program or willingness to complete CHW certification within a specified timeframe.
Required Experience: 

•    1-2 years of experience in community health, patient advocacy, case management, or healthcare navigation preferred.
•    Experience working with diverse and underserved populations.
•    Strong understanding of social determinants of health (SDOH) and their impact on health outcomes.
•    Ability to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds in a culturally competent manner.
•    Knowledge of community resources, healthcare systems, and social service programs.
•    Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHRs) and basic data entry.
•    Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build trust with patients and collaborate with healthcare teams.
•    Ability to work independently in both clinical and community-based settings.

Preferred Qualifications:
Preferred Education:  Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Social Work, or a related field preferred.

Preferred Experience:

•    Bilingual proficiency in Spanish, Arabic, or another language commonly spoken in the community.
•    Experience working in primary care, public health, or social services.
•    Knowledge of motivational interviewing or health coaching techniques.