Program Consultant Healthcare Quality – Post Acute Stroke

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Position Title: Program Consultant Healthcare Quality – Post Acute Stroke
Location: St. Louis
Country: United States
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The American Heart Association (AHA) is a leading organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Established over a century ago, the AHA has grown to become a trusted leader in cardiovascular and brain health, with a mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. The organization operates in multiple countries and employs thousands of individuals who are committed to improving health outcomes for all. The AHA focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and support they need to lead healthier lives. As the AHA celebrates its Centennial year, it continues to innovate and expand its impact in the healthcare sector, striving to reach communities everywhere with its initiatives and programs.

Job Overview:
The Program Consultant Healthcare Quality – Post Acute Stroke is a pivotal role within the American Heart Association, primarily responsible for implementing quality improvement programs aimed at enhancing care for patients with cardiovascular diseases, specifically in South Dakota. This position is home-based, allowing for flexibility while supporting the National Center office in Dallas, TX. The consultant will work closely with various healthcare providers to educate and motivate them to adhere to the American Heart Association's guidelines, clinical processes, and practices. The role involves regular communication of project status, ensuring that all requirements are met within the defined budget, scope, and timeline. The consultant will also collaborate with different departments within the national office to ensure the success of the initiatives undertaken.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Program Consultant Healthcare Quality include driving the implementation of quality improvement projects that assist healthcare providers in treating patients according to the American Heart Association guidelines. The consultant will provide consultation, direction, and support through learning cohorts, identifying strategies for improving patient outcomes. Building relationships with internal and external stakeholders and volunteers is crucial, as is facilitating learning cohort meetings and local conferences in coordination with volunteers and staff partners. The consultant will develop program implementation strategies aligned with initiative objectives and serve as the point person for ongoing resources needed by hospitals and clinics. Additionally, the consultant will develop clinical decision support tools, collaborate with clinicians to implement systematic efforts to improve care, recruit program participants, and work with in-hospital clinical care teams to address barriers to guideline adoption. Regular communication with the Senior Manager is essential to ensure tasks are completed according to the grant timeline, and the consultant will manage project documents, including budgets, timelines, and status reports for both internal and external audiences.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Program Consultant position, candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work experience. A minimum of 2 years of relevant experience is required, particularly in a post-acute clinical setting, with a preference for experience related to Post Acute Stroke. Candidates should have experience in healthcare or public health-related organizations, focusing on clinical quality improvement, program development, and systems improvement. Proficiency in project management, including managing budgets, timelines, and communication with team members and stakeholders, is essential. Strong verbal, written, and presentation communication skills are necessary, along with the ability to work effectively in a team environment and interact with all levels of AHA staff, volunteers, and the public. Comprehensive skills in the Microsoft Office suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, are required, and candidates should be willing to travel up to 15% of the time, including overnight stays in South Dakota.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field or equivalent work experience. This educational requirement can also be satisfied through relevant experience in healthcare or public health-related organizations, particularly in roles focused on clinical quality improvement and program development.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2 years of relevant experience, particularly in a post-acute clinical setting. Experience in healthcare or public health-related organizations is essential, with a focus on clinical quality improvement, program development, and systems improvement. This experience is critical for understanding the complexities of healthcare delivery and the challenges faced by providers in adhering to clinical guidelines.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in regions with diverse populations, but are not explicitly required for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time, benefits-eligible, grant-funded opportunity, with current funding set to expire on June 30, 2027, although there is a possibility of extension. The expected pay range for this role is between $70,000 and $90,000, commensurate with experience, and geographic differentials may apply. The American Heart Association offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, as well as a robust retirement program with employer matching. Employees also benefit from paid time off, professional development opportunities, and tuition assistance programs to support their career growth. The AHA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, ensuring that all employees feel valued and supported.