Patient Representative

Primary assignment is to serve as liaison between patients/families and organization as a whole and between the institution and the community it serves. Provides a specific channel through which patients/family can seek solutions to problems, concerns and unmet needs. As a patient advocate, enables patients and their families to obtain solutions to problems by acting in their behalf with administration or any department or service, and by recommending alternative policies and procedures in order to improve service to patients. As the institution’s direct representative, interprets philosophy, policies, procedures and services to patients and their families and visitors. Serves as co-chair of the Ethics Committee and is assessable to hospital staff, physicians, patients and families if ethical issues arise in patient care. EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree preferred. EXPERIENCE: 3-4 years in a hospital setting and an understanding of hospital operations LICENSURE/QUALIFICATIONS: Ability to convey warmth and interest in the patient as a person in their experience. Interest in working with individuals in resolving problems and ability to identify patient-related trends and act as a facilitator for change. WORKING CONDITIONS/HAZARDS: Exposure to communicable diseases, blood and blood products, illness, confused and/or combative patients, hazardous chemicals, stressful situations, x-rays sharp instruments and needles, and electricity. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Standing, Walking, Lifting; occasionally must reach above head, carry medium to light equipment, and stoop.