Patient Navigator

At ACHC, we are committed to improving the health and well-being of our communities. As a Federally Qualified Health Center and licensed primary care clinic, we provide comprehensive medical and dental services, along with specialized care in Chiropractic, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Pediatrics, Psychology, Podiatry, and Optometry. With clinics located across Fresno, Kings, and Tulare counties, our team works together to deliver accessible, high-quality care to every patient.

The Patient Navigator provides case management and support services to patients in an outpatient clinic setting. This role focuses on helping patients stay engaged in medical care, navigate healthcare systems, and overcome barriers to treatment. The Patient Navigator also performs receptionist duties, serving as the first point of contact for patients and ensuring a positive experience throughout their care journey. This role reports to the Clinic Manager.

Responsibilities:

• Establish close relationships with patients and serve as their care navigator to guide them for their care plans and needs.
• Communicate with care team members (providers, medical assistants, care coordinators) to facilitate patient care.
• Make outbound calls to patients for wellness checks, care management, appointment reminders, and follow-ups.
• Gather chart information, document patient progress, and input data into the EHR system.
• Assist patients with completing forms and understanding clinic processes.
• Utilize tools such as Social Determinants of Health Screenings to identify resources to help patients overcome barriers to care (e.g., transportation, housing, childcare)
• Coordinate non-clinical services such as healthcare coverage assistance, transportation and referrals to community resources and services.
• Provide patients with information on available clinic services, mental health support, and health education.
• Maintain strict confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and clinic policies.
• Track patient attendance at appointments and initiate outreach for missed visits.
• Maintain accurate documentation of all patient encounters and reporting requirements.
• Greet patients and visitors in a professional and welcoming manner; deliver excellent customer service.
• Answer and route phone calls, respond to inquiries, and manage voicemail messages.
• Schedule and confirm appointments using the clinic's EHR system.
• Verify patient demographics, insurance information, and collect co-pays or payments.
• Support the mission, vision and core values of Aria Community Health Center.
• Participate in the Patient Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model of care.
• Maintain a clean and organized front desk and waiting area.
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and represent the organization at approved events.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and in a team environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in EHR systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong organizational skills with a focus on supporting business goals and operational cost control.
• Knowledge of medical terminology preferred.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations.
• Customer service-oriented with patience and compassion.

Education & Experience

• Minimum: Bachelor's degree in Health Sciences, Business, or a related field.
• Alternatively, an Associate's degree plus one of the following:
  • At least three years of documented patient navigation or case management experience in healthcare settings
• Experience with electronic health records (EHR), motivational interviewing, and navigating Medi-Cal/insurance systems.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish), to support our patient population.

Preferred:

• • Previous experience working in outpatient clinics, FQHCs, or community health environments.
  • Two years of experience in billing and/or account receivables in a healthcare setting.

PHYSICAL/COGNITIVE REQUIREMENTS

The physical and cognitive demands listed below represent essential functions of this position and are required with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Hearing: Sufficient to engage with patients and staff in person and by telephone.
• Speaking: Clear verbal communication to convey medical and operational information.
• Vision: Visual acuity adequate for reading printed materials and viewing electronic screens.
• Cognitive Abilities: Aptitude to complete tasks, including abilities such as learning, remembering, focusing, categorizing, and integrating information for decision-making, problem-solving, and comprehending.
• Motor Function & Mobility:
  • Ability to move within the work environment to complete tasks and interact with others.
  • Occasional lifting and carrying of items up to 10 pounds without assistance.
  • Frequent standing, sitting, bending, reaching, and other movements typical of a standard workday.
  • Regular use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, operating tools or equipment, and handling materials.
  • Some pushing and pulling required during daily tasks.

BENEFITS

• 403(B) matching
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid Holidays
• Vacation Pay
• Sick Pay

EEO STATEMENT:

Aria Community Health Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

Aria Community Health Center participates in E-Verify.