Healthcare and Benefits Navigator

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Healthcare and Benefits Navigator
Location: New York City
Country: United States
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the International Rescue Committee (IRC), which was established in 193

• The IRC is dedicated to helping people affected by humanitarian crises to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. With a mission to restore safety, dignity, and hope to millions who are uprooted and struggling to endure, the IRC operates in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively to provide essential services and support to refugees and displaced individuals.

Job Overview:
The Healthcare and Benefits Navigator plays a crucial role in the IRC's mission by coordinating, enrolling, and advising clients on available public benefits and social services. This position is vital for ensuring that clients have access to necessary medical care and healthcare services. The Navigator will work closely with clients to help them establish a medical home for ongoing care, ensuring that their medical and mental health needs are promptly identified and treated. Reporting to the Senior Resettlement Manager, the Navigator will engage with clients in New York City, guiding them through the complexities of the healthcare system and assisting them in navigating various social services. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to supporting clients in overcoming barriers to accessing healthcare.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Healthcare and Benefits Navigator will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: screening, counseling, and supporting clients to enroll in social services such as Medicaid, Supplemental security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Income (SSI), SNAP, WIC, and TANF. The Navigator will ensure that urgent medication needs are addressed and that clients are informed about how to fill and refill prescriptions at accessible pharmacies. Additionally, the Navigator will assist clients in obtaining affordable prescription eyeglasses if necessary. Collaborating with the Health & Wellness team, the Navigator will co-facilitate health education classes covering topics like digital health literacy and public benefits eligibility. Compliance with case file management and reporting requirements is essential, necessitating regular maintenance of both hard-copy and electronic files. The Navigator will participate in program meetings, staff development activities, and other assigned duties. They will also assist clients in selecting primary care physicians (PCPs) and scheduling initial appointments, ensuring clients can independently manage their healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the Navigator will help clients resolve barriers to accessing medical and mental health services, including transportation, language access, and financial challenges. They will address billing issues related to medical services and coordinate between Medicaid or other insurance plans and healthcare providers. Maintaining client confidentiality and adhering to agency policies and procedures is paramount, as is referring clients to additional services they may be eligible for, both internally at IRC and externally with partner organizations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Healthcare and Benefits Navigator position should possess a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field of study, although relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. Familiarity with the U.S. healthcare system and federally-funded healthcare programs is strongly preferred. A minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in the human services field is required, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong relationship-building skills, diplomacy, and networking abilities, with a proven track record of effective communication in a multicultural environment. Self-starters with excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively will excel in this role.

Educational Background:
The preferred educational background for this position is a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field. This educational foundation equips candidates with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of social services and healthcare systems, particularly in relation to the needs of refugee and immigrant populations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in the human services field. Candidates with familiarity with the U.S. healthcare system and federally-funded healthcare programs will be at an advantage. Experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations is strongly preferred, as it provides valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by these communities.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages that are commonly spoken by IRC clients, such as Spanish, French, Haitian-Creole, Pashto, or Dari, is preferred and will enhance the Navigator's ability to communicate effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.

Additional Notes:
The Healthcare and Benefits Navigator position may involve a combination of standard office work, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area. Candidates should be prepared for occasional weekend and/or evening work as needed. The compensation for this role is competitive and varies based on factors such as labor market conditions, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The organization is committed to equal opportunity employment and values diversity, ensuring that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations throughout the application and interview process. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including sick days, paid time off, medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program to support staff and their families.