This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Under indirect supervision, works closely with medical providers, primary care teams, and social services agencies to provide short term care coordination and connection to resources and support to program clients to improve their health and general well-being through education and provision of coordination of care and services. Works in both clinical and community-based settings, including clients' homes. May act as a peer support worker, where applicable, if self-disclosed as current or former consumer of mental health or substance abuse services with at least two years of mental health or substance abuse recovery.
Duties and Responsibilities
Assists clients in their homes, community, or clinic setting. Communicates to clients/patients the purposes of the program and the impact it may have on their wellbeing. Helps patients identify socio-economic issues that affect their overall health and develop health/social management plans and goals.
Documents all client encounters and contracts made on behalf of clients; completes and submits monthly reports; maintains comprehensive electronic client files, which include client notes, release of information, assessments and other medical documents acquired on behalf of the client. Documents activities, service plans, and outcomes achieved by client in an effective manner.
Educates client on the proper use of the Emergency Room, and provides information for alternatives. Coaches patients in effective management of their chronic health conditions and self-care. Assists patient in understanding care plans and instructions. Motivates patients/clients to be active and engaged participants in their health and overall wellbeing.
Assists clients in accessing health related services, including but not limited to: obtaining a medical home, providing instruction on appropriate use of the medical home, overcoming barriers to obtaining needed medical care and /or social services.
Provides support and advocacy during initial medical visit or when necessary to assure clients' medical needs and referrals required are being conveyed. Follows up with both clients and providers regarding health/social services plans.
Facilitates communication and coordinate services between providers and the clients/patients. Coordinates and monitors services, including comprehensive tracking of clients' compliance in relation to care plan objectives.
Continuously expands knowledge and understanding of community resources and services. Facilitates client access to community resources, including locating housing, food, clothing, prenatal classes, parenting, and providers to teach life skills, and relevant mental health services. Assists clients in utilizing community services, including scheduling appointments with social services agencies and assisting with completion of applications for programs for which they may be eligible.
Travels extensively to client homes, community locations, various agencies, and other outreach destinations.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
High school diploma or GED; at least 1 year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
Knowledge of community agencies and resources.
Working knowledge of multi-system outreach programs related to health care delivery, clinical education, and health-related services.
Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate individual client care plans.
Knowledge of transportation and other barriers to care that may be encountered by client.
Ability to communicate medical information to health care professionals and care coordinators over the telephone.
Skill in use of personal computers and related software applications, including e-mail.
Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
Creative and analytical thinking.
Conditions of Employment
Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
Fingerprinting, and subsequent clearance, may be required for this position depending on assignment.
May be required to obtain a Community Support Worker (CSW) certification within six months of hire.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
No or very limited physical effort required.
No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
