Community Health Worker-HIV TRUST (4616)

SUMMARY:

The Community Health Worker (CHW) provides direct outreach, health education, and care coordination to diverse patient populations, helping individuals access healthcare, social services, and community resources. This role focuses on bridging gaps between patients and providers, addressing social determinants of health, and supporting engagement in care. The CHW reports to the Associate Behavioral Health Director and works closely with clinical teams, case managers, and external partners to improve patient well-being and reduce barriers to care.

 

This position is represented by SEIU-UHW. Salaries and benefits are set by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), and an employee in this position must remain a member in good standing of SEIU-UHW, as defined in the CBA.

 

JOB DUTIES:

• Conduct outreach to patients who are disconnected from care, providing reminders and follow-ups to encourage appointments and treatment adherence.
• Assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, including scheduling appointments, understanding medical instructions, and completing paperwork.
• Build trusting relationships with patients to support long-term engagement in primary care and behavioral health services.
• Provide health education on topics such as chronic disease management, medication adherence, and preventive care.
• Conduct one-on-one coaching to help patients understand their treatment plans and lifestyle modifications.
• Facilitate support groups and educational workshops on community health topics.
• Assist patients with referrals to internal and external services, including housing support, food assistance, and behavioral health care.
• Help patients apply for benefits, such as Medi-Cal, CalFresh, and other social service programs.
• Maintain updated community resource lists to connect patients with available services.
• Work closely with medical providers, case managers, and behavioral health teams to address patient needs holistically.
• Serve as a liaison between patients and healthcare teams, ensuring patient concerns and barriers are addressed.
• Advocate for equitable healthcare access and culturally responsive care within LifeLong and the broader community.
• Document patient interactions and referrals in the electronic health record (EPIC).
• Track patient progress and engagement, alerting care teams to individuals who may need additional support.
• Participate in team meetings and case conferences to support care coordination efforts.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in community outreach, case management, or a related field.
• Experience working with underserved populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, chronic illness, or behavioral health challenges.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse patient populations.
• Knowledge of community resources, social services, and public benefits programs.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.
• Basic computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and data entry in an EHR (EPIC preferred).

Job Preferences:

• Lived experience relevant to the patient population served
• Bilingual abilities strongly preferred (Spanish).
• Training or certification as a Community Health Worker (CHW) or Peer Support Specialist.