Substance Use Navigator

The Substance Use Navigator (SUN) provides patient-centered navigation and care coordination services for individuals experiencing substance-use disorders (SUDs), including opioid use disorders (OUD). The SUN focuses on low-threshold access to evidence-based treatment, including medication for addiction treatment (MAT), harm-reduction strategies, and rapid linkage to outpatient and community-based services.

Working primarily within the Emergency Department (ED) and Labor & Delivery (L&D) and in collaboration with Network Clinic managers as needed, the SUN identifies and engages patients with substance use needs, conducts brief assessments and interventions, facilitates initiation and continuation of MAT, and supports patients in overcoming barriers to care. The SUN collaborates closely with physicians, nursing staff, social work, behavioral health, and community partners to ensure seamless transitions across the continuum of care.

In addition to direct patient support, the SUN promotes stigma-free, harm-reduction–oriented practices within the hospital environment and contributes to system-level improvements that enhance access, quality, and equity in substance-use care.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in social work, public health, nursing, human services, or a related field preferred.
• Community Health Worker (CHW) or Peer Support Specialist certification preferred or willingness to obtain within a specified timeframe.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with individuals with substance-use disorders, mental health conditions, or other vulnerable populations in healthcare, community-based, or social service settings.
• Experience in an emergency department, inpatient hospital environment, community outreach, harm-reduction program, MAT program, or patient navigation role is preferred.
• Lived experience with substance-use recovery or close community experience may be considered in lieu of formal experience, where appropriate.