Peer Recovery Coach

General Summary of Position

MedStar Health is looking for a Peer Recovery Coach to join our team at MedStar Washington Hospital Center!  

The Peer Recovery Coach provides non-clinical services intended to aid patients in establishing recovery from high risk of dependent alcohol and drug use problems. Works with a team at MedStar Washington that provides peer support and motivation to encourage patients who are seeking treatment for alcohol or drug dependency and addiction issues. Assists in completing referrals to treatment services and developing service plans to promote successful linkage to treatment services. Services will be provided at MedStar Washington with appropriate follow-up; and the patient's nurse must be notified before visiting the patient.  

Join  one of the largest healthcare systems in the Baltimore-Washington metro re gion, also recognized as one of the "Healthiest Maryland Businesses". Apply today and learn how MedStar Health can be your next great career move! 

 
Primary Duties:  

• Acts as peer support throughout the hospitalization and post-discharge, as appropriate to attain goals. Acts as a resource to other clinical team members on recovery support. Assists patients in linking to community support services and substance treatment services including securing appointments and transportation. Assists patients and families with understanding how to utilize community services.  

• Completes required documentation and other reports. Conducts brief interventions to patients that screen positive for alcohol and/or drug use. Consults with nursing staff, social work as requested, even if patient does not screen positive.  

• Identifies patient’s history of drug/alcohol use, treatment history, motivation to change behavior and other needs for community support services. Identifies patient’s readiness to change and use motivational interviewing techniques and other communication skills to support a plan for reducing or eliminating harmful drug and/or alcohol use.  

• Models coping techniques and self-help strategies. Participates in training to continually gain new skills. 13. Provides family members with recovery support materials. Provides telephone outreach to patients to assist with linkages and continued peer support.  

• Telephones treatment providers to verify patient showed up for an appointment; and follow-up by telephone with any patient that misses an appointment. Works with the Emergency Department staff and social workers to identify community support services. Attends required staff and other meetings.  

Qualifications:  

• High School Diploma or GED.  

• 1-2 years professional experience working in a recovery program.  

• Actively engaged in own recovery program with at least three years demonstrated personal recovery and sustained abstinence from alcohol and/or drug use with no relapses.  

• Certified Peer Recovery Coach or Certified Peer Specialist.