Community Health Worker - Unity Health Care : Job Details

INTRODUCTION Under the supervision of the Director of Social Services, the Community Health Worker (CHW) is responsible for supporting the operation of the Food Pharmacy. The Food Pharmacy serves patients who are 65+ with a diagnosis of hypertension, diabetes, and/or obesity. Using “food as medicine,” the Food Pharmacy seeks to combat food insecurity in wards 7 and 8. The Food Pharmacy provides Unity patients with access to nutritious fresh foods to help them manage their chronic health conditions. This position requires lifting boxes containing food products. As trusted members of the localities in which they work, CHWs serve as the liaisons between health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery. CHWs also build individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support, and advocacy. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to the following: Assist patients to address social needs that impact their health care by completing Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) screening. Provide guidance to patients regarding food selection per their Food Pharmacy prescription. Assist the case worker with providing education and support regarding healthy eating, individually or via presentations and/or workshops. Assist case worker with linking patients to community resources and support networks to address identified needs. Provide regular follow up to all patients to ensure successful linkage to, and utilization of, community resources and/or in-house services, as well as problem solving as necessary. Stocking shelves and organizing food products. Assist patients with barriers to accessing food from the Food Pharmacy, including assisting patients with food delivery and transportation needs. Initiates outreach to patients who are lost to care to engage them back into services. Engage with patients to increase patient compliance with Food Pharmacy, medical treatment, and/or case plan. Utilizes strength-based, person-centered approach and motivational interviewing techniques to build rapport with patients. Develop and maintain a professional relationship and appropriate boundaries with patients. Participate in professional development opportunities and regular supervision. · Provide support and back up coverage for the case worker as necessary Accurately document all patient encounters in eClinical Works (eCW) and responds to messages and referrals within established time frames. Attend department, health center, organization, and mandatory trainings and meetings. Performs other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS High school diploma or equivalent. Experience working in a heath care setting and/or social services. Experience with patient engagement and/or community outreach. Experience with under resourced communities. Home visiting experience preferred KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION Effective verbal and written communication skills Knowledge of DC community resources and services Willingness to continue education/competency training on health eating and chronic health conditions. Basic computer skills and the ability to type. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams. Willingness to articulate, and adhere to, Unity's mission through his/her work SUPERVISORY CONTROLS The Community Health Worker does not have direct reports. GUIDELINES This position abides by all rules and regulations set forth by applicable licensing and regulatory bodies, as well as UHC policies and procedures. PERSONAL CONTACTS This position has contact with staff at all levels throughout the organization. There are also external organizational relationships that may be part of the work of this individual. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Refer to ADA Checklist. WORK ENVIRONMENT Refer to ADA Checklist. OTHER SIGNIFICANT FACTS The incumbent must be able to balance the needs of diverse constituencies on a daily basis. RISKS The position works involves everyday risk and discomforts, which require normal safety pre-caution typical of such places as offices, meetings, training room and other UHC health Care Sites. The work area is adequately lit, heated and ventilated. The position requires contact with staff at all levels throughout the organization. There are also external organization relationships that may be a part of the work of this individual. All medical services shall be provided according to medical accepted community standards of care. Shall provide evidence of recent (within the past twelve (12) months) health assessment that includes a PPD and/or chest x-ray results. Shall provide evidence of vaccination for Hepatitis A & B, influenza, and COVID-19. The statements contained herein describe the scope of the responsibility and essential functions of this position, but should not be considered to be an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned including work in other areas to cover absences or relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.