Community Health Worker

Job Title

Personal Health Community Health Worker

Job Summary

The Personal Health Community Health Worker (PHCHW) supports the Personal Health Administrator by coordinating care and connecting county residents to health resources.

Essential Duties

Assists residents in their homes, community, and/or health system settings. Communicates to residents the role of the Health Department and the various programs contained within the Department specifically those related to HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and maternal child health.

Assists residents in identifying issues that affect their overall health.

Aids residents in developing health and social management plans and goals.

Documents all resident interactions and contacts made on behalf of residents. Completes and submits monthly reports, maintains comprehensive electronic resident files which include resident notes, release of information, assessments and other medical documents acquired on behalf of the resident. Documents activities, service plans, and outcomes achieved by resident in an effective manner.

Educates residents on the proper use of health systems and services, specifically those designed to address HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and maternal child health.

Coaches residents to effectively understand and manage their chronic health conditions and self-care.

Motivates residents to be active participants in their health and overall wellbeing.

Assists residents in accessing health related services, including but not limited to obtaining a medical home, providing instruction on appropriate use of the medical home, overcoming barriers to obtaining needed medical care and/or social services.

Provides support and advocacy during medical visits to assure residents' medical needs and referrals required are being conveyed. Follows up with both residents and providers regarding health and social services plans.

Facilitates resident access to community resources such as housing, food pantries, childcare, parenting classes, and mental health services.

Assists residents in utilizing community services, scheduling appointments with social service agencies and assisting with completion of applications for programs for which they may be eligible.

Maintains communication between providers and residents to coordinate services and monitor residents' compliance in relation to care plan objectives.

Establishes positive, supportive relationships with participants and maintains positive working relationships with their providers, nurse case managers, agency representatives, supervisors and office staff. Works to reduce cultural and socio-economic barriers between residents and institutions.

Travels extensively to resident homes, community locations, various agencies, and other outreach destinations.

Promotes public health within the community

Performs other duties as required

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED

At least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. (Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis)

Knowledge of up-to-date community agencies and resources

Working knowledge of multi-system outreach programs related to health care delivery, clinical education, and health-related services

Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate individual client care plans

Knowledge of transportation and other barriers to care that may be encountered by client

Ability to communicate medical information to health care professionals and care coordinators over the telephone

Ability to work effectively as an individual as well as collaboratively in a team environment

Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities

Creative and analytical thinking

Valid driver's license and ability to pass a background check

Ability to interact appropriately and effectively with a wide range of persons

Ability to maintain and handle confidential information

Ability to follow protocol, procedures, and established guidelines

Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances and needs

A strong work ethic and ability to manage a demanding and changing workload

Strong relationship-building skills

Additional Information

Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Experience:

Ability to empathize with individuals' circumstances and offer compassionate care, particularly when dealing with vulnerable populations.

Strong problem-solving skills to address health-related issues and connect individuals with appropriate resources.

Computer Skills:

Proficiency in Microsoft Applications (Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, utilize a keyboard, sit, bend at the waist, and talk or hear. Occasionally, the employee will need to reach or work with arms above shoulder height, kneel, stoop, drive, crouch or squat, crawl, drive, climb stairs, twist or rotate at the waist while working; push, lift or carry items.

Visual Requirements:

Near visual acuity

Work Environment:

Office settings, and on-site visits to various fieldwork locations.

The selected candidate will be required to obtain, at their own expense, 3 forms of clearance, including PA State Police Criminal History Record Check; PA Child Abuse History; and FBI Criminal History Background Check including finger printing prior to employment. Delaware County Health Department requires all employees be up to date for their COVID-19 vaccination per CDC guidelines. Proof of vaccination must be submitted before a candidate's start date if hired.

Benefits

The County of Delaware offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, retirement, life insurance, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.