Job Summary:

MedStar Health is looking for a Community Health Advocate to join our team! We are looking for someone with personal knowledge of the target population, as shown by residency in that neighborhood, cultural competency, and knowledge of local resources and system navigation.

The Community Health Advocate will target outreach to community members, builds sustainable relationships that result in increased access to health care in the most appropriate setting and community-based health education, and supports the primary care team. Provides care coordination and connection to resources and programs for patients to improve their health and general well-being through education and provision of coordination of care and services. Serves as a liaison/link/intermediary between health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery. Builds individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support, and advocacy

Join one of the largest healthcare systems in the Baltimore-Washington metro region, 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:

• Advocates for individual and community health equity. Collects, tracks and reports information about the community and community benefits. Enhances community residents' ability to effectively communicate with health care providers.

• Identifies and addresses issues that create barriers to care for specific individuals. Integrates with patient care team to support progress in care plan and overall patient wellness. May help patients access health-related services, including obtaining a medical home, providing instruction on appropriate use of the medical home, overcoming barriers to obtaining needed medical care and/or social services.

• Proactively identifies and refers individuals to federal, state, private or nonprofit health and human services programs. Provides care, support, follow up, and education in community settings. Provides culturally and linguistically appropriate health education. Provides evidence-based health guidance and social assistance to community residents. Provides referral and follow-up services or otherwise coordinates human services options.

• Serves as a liaison between communities, individuals and coordinated health care organizations. Staffs community events and activities as needed. May assist patients in their homes, community, or clinic setting. Communicates to 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 patient encounters; 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 patient. Documents activities, service plans, and outcomes achieved by patient in an effective manner. Educates client on the proper use of the Emergency Room/Health system services and provides information for alternatives. Coaches patients in effective management of their chronic health conditions and self-care. Assists patients in understanding care plans and instructions. Motivates patients/clients to be active and engaged participants in their health and overall wellbeing.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED.

• Residency within the target population preferred.

• Participation with a community organization, verified by personal or professional reference with personal knowledge of this fact preferred.