Healthcare Navigator

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Position Title: Healthcare Navigator
Location: United States
Country: United States
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent humanitarian organization that was established in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC is dedicated to responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises, providing essential services to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With operations in over 40 countries and 29 cities across the United States, the IRC employs a diverse workforce committed to delivering impactful solutions that help millions of people regain control over their lives and strengthen their communities. The organization is recognized as one of the largest international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) and is driven by a mission to foster humanity and hope in the face of adversity. Employees at the IRC are encouraged to be solutions-driven and passionate change-makers, contributing positively to the lives of individuals worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Healthcare Navigator position is designed to coordinate healthcare services and referrals specifically for Cuban and Haitian entrant clients, under the guidance of the Casework Supervisor. The primary focus of this role is to enhance access to healthcare for these clients and promote the overall health of newcomer families as they transition into their new lives in the United States. The Healthcare Navigator will engage directly with clients to assess their healthcare needs, develop personalized care plans, and provide ongoing support through direct services, referrals, and advocacy. This position requires a proactive approach to ensure that clients are informed about their healthcare options and are able to navigate the complexities of the U.S. healthcare system effectively. The role also involves collaboration with various healthcare providers and social service agencies to address the health needs of clients and identify available resources.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Healthcare Navigator will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: conducting intake services to assess client needs, developing individualized care plans in collaboration with clients, and providing direct support through referrals and advocacy. The Navigator will schedule and facilitate refugee health screenings for all new arrivals, ensuring that documentation from the Refugee Health Assessment Program (RHAP) is obtained. They will monitor client progress towards established goals, address any challenges that arise, and ensure that clients are utilizing available resources effectively. Additionally, the Navigator will assist clients in selecting a primary care physician (PCP) and help schedule initial appointments, ensuring that clients feel comfortable with the process. The role also involves creating and distributing healthcare guides tailored to the specific needs of each new arrival or family, conducting outreach to healthcare providers and social service agencies, and maintaining accurate case notes for each client interaction. The Navigator will collaborate with coworkers and partner organizations, build relationships with area service providers, and may also train and lead volunteers and interns. Other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Healthcare Navigator position should possess a strong understanding of the U.S. healthcare system and healthcare programs available for low-income families. A minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in the human services field is strongly preferred, particularly 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. Additionally, candidates should be self-starters with excellent problem-solving skills, capable of managing multiple tasks and prioritizing duties effectively. Attention to detail and accuracy in work is essential, as is proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and the ability to utilize digital tools for data entry and research purposes.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field of study is preferred for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary to understand the complexities of social services and healthcare systems, particularly as they pertain 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, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations. Familiarity with the U.S. healthcare system and programs for low-income families is also strongly preferred, as this knowledge is critical for effectively supporting clients in navigating their healthcare options.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, along with proficiency in Haitian Creole, French, or Spanish, both spoken and written. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication with clients from diverse backgrounds and for ensuring that healthcare information is accessible to all clients.

Additional Notes:
The Healthcare Navigator position is based in a combination of standard office environments, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area. The role will primarily operate from the IRC office in City Heights, with office hours scheduled from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM, although some evening and weekend events may be required. Compensation for this position is competitive and varies based on factors such as labor market conditions, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S. employees, including sick time, a 403b retirement savings plan with matching contributions, paid holidays, paid time off, and various insurance options. Part-time employees are eligible for a proportionate amount of paid time off, and additional benefits apply to employees who work at least 6 months within a 12-month period. The IRC is committed to maintaining a professional standard of conduct and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.