Patient Navigator

Overview

The patient navigation process includes consistent care coordination throughout the continuum of care and an assessment of the physical and social needs of the patient. The anticipated results are enhanced patient outcomes, increased satisfaction, and reduced costs of care. This may involve different individuals at each point of care.

Responsibilities

• Provide education, support, and coordination to assist patients in securing appointments.
• Provide educational resources including the promotion of routine health screenings.
• Connect patients and families to resources and support services
• Promote communication between the patient and health care providers
• Enhance the patient’s quality of life, sense of autonomy, and self-determination for managing his/her own
• health.
• Reinforce physician-patient relationship
• Maintain records for reporting purposes in accordance with the ARH Quality policy and procedure guides
• Work with multi-disciplinary teams to establish action plans for patients; assure action plans are carried out.
• Closely monitor readmission rates for AMI and CHF patients and work to reduce these rates
• Monitor medication compliance and assist patients, when necessary, in obtaining medications through available
• programs.

Qualifications

Education:

• Associate Degree required.
• Must be a Nurse or Social Worker trained to provide individualized assistance for post-acute care needs, or a non-professional who has successfully completed a recognized Patient Navigation Training Program.
• Documentation of the knowledge and skills obtained through previous education and experience required to provide patient navigation services.

Work Experience:

• One (1) to three (3) years of experience in a healthcare-related field required.
• Nursing or Social Work experience preferred.

Licensure/Certification:

• No licensure or certification requirements specified.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of patient navigation principles and post-acute care resources.
• Ability to assess patient needs and coordinate appropriate services and resources.
• Knowledge of healthcare systems, community resources, and care transition processes.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and advocacy skills.
• Ability to establish effective relationships with patients, families, healthcare providers, and community agencies.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and patient records.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Knowledge of confidentiality requirements and patient privacy regulations.