Early Intervention Specialist

Job Summary The Early Intervention Services (EIS) Specialist identifies individuals who are living with HIV and HCV and links them into medical care as quickly as possible. These individuals are referred to EIS through targeted testing, referral services, linkage to care referrals, outreach services and health education/risk reduction. The elements of EIS often overlap with other service categories and departments; however, EIS is considered the combination of such services rather than a stand-alone service. Responsibilities Deliver individualized HIV counseling and HCV/STI education to clients who are newly diagnosed or re‑engaging in care, through DAP Health clinics and community referrals. Complete an assessment to identify social determinants of health barriers and utilize prevention strategies for specific infectious and chronic illnesses at time of visit. Educate clients and their sexual partners and/or family members on HIV prevention methods, including condom and lubricant use, harm reduction practices, and antiretroviral therapies. Facilitate referrals to a Prevention Navigator for PEP and PrEP services for sexual partners and/or client's family members. Facilitate access to care by identifying and removing barriers for clients newly diagnosed with HIV or those out of care. Facilitate referrals to medical care at DAP Health services as needed. Communicate information consistent with agency standards. Remain knowledgeable about local resources and advocate for clients by helping them access and navigate community-based services. Access patient protected health information as needed. Maintain accurate and timely documentation for all client interactions. Keep Electronic Health Records up to date (HCC, Epic and other databases). Meet with clients on a walk-in basis to provide support, answer questions and address immediate needs. Provide post-appointment support to clients, including assistance with in-house lab interactions to complete lab work and coordination of same-day prescription pickup. Support clients by offering updated information and referrals to insurance enrollment workers to assist with coverage applications. Connect clients with relevant internal and external resources through timely and accurate referrals. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Fluency/Excellent verbal and written communication in English. Motivational Interviewing preferred. Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred. Bachelor's degree or experience in medical or health-related fields; social work, counseling, nursing, public health or other health education. Current American Heart Association or American Red Cross accredited BLS certification. The ideal candidate will have interest and competence in cultural differences, HIV/AIDS, minority health, sexual practices, and competence in working with the substance abuse community, African American, Latino/a, LGBT communities, health care workers, youth and/or seniors. Knowledge of HIV/AIDS disease, STIs (Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Syphilis) and HCV including diagnosis, prevention and risk-reduction strategies. Previous professional or volunteer experience working in HIV/HCV/STI prevention or care and/or delivering sexual health education or other behavior. Understanding of how related chronic and infectious diseases are transmitted and prevented and familiarity with PrEP and PEP. Stages of Change and behavioral risk reduction skills. Working Conditions/Physical Requirements Position is on-site at a DAP Health location. Ability to lift up to 24 pounds. Operates in an office setting and requires frequent sitting, standing, repetitive motion and talking. Requires current and valid driver’s license and personal auto insurance. Able to travel throughout Southern California. #J-18808-Ljbffr