Patient Care Associate - Ambulatory Care

About NYC Health + Hospitals

NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health is one of the largest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in the country, providing coordinated world-class primary and specialty care with dignity and respect for all New Yorkers, without exception. At Gotham Health, we practice a person-centered caring culture that values delivering compassionate, quality healthcare in partnership with our patients, community organizations, and staff. Gotham Health is focused on high-quality, affordable care to everyone regardless of ability to pay. Gotham Health serves the community through a two-pronged approach: providing treatment to those who need it while at the same time emphasizing prevention. We strive to deliver services in a way that maximizes each patient's opportunity to achieve successful health outcomes, we believe in every person's right to participate in their care plans, we facilitate partnerships with other community resources to meet the needs of our patients beyond healthcare, and we celebrate and recognize the compassionate care of our committed staff. Join our team if you want to be part of our Gotham Health Family, a person-centered, fully integrated, and innovative ambulatory care network.

Job Description

PURPOSE OF POSITION

Under the direct supervision of a licensed Nurse or other professional medical staff in a health care setting, performs a variety of health-related essential duties and responsibilities associated with patient care; performs clerical duties involving direct relationships with patients, and is an integral member of the patient’s care team.

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities

• Greets patients arriving to the units, by introducing themselves with name and title.

• Uses two patient identifiers to identify patient.

• Escorts patient to the exam room and prepare patient for visit by performing vital signs including height and weight, pain, pulse oximetry.

• Interviews clients and families in order to obtain personal and medical histories; participates in providing information on health care services as required.

• Completes depression screening tool, HIV, domestic violence and smoking cessation.

• Assists provider during examination as requested/needed, providing necessary equipment and supplies.

• Instructs clients on preparation for laboratory and other tests, procedures, and medical visits.

• Offers HIV testing to all patients age 13 to 64.

• Obtains or instructs patients in obtaining specimens for laboratory testing, i.e. stool, urine.

• Performs venipuncture for blood specimens as ordered using 2 patient identifiers.

• Labels all specimens in front of the patient while the patient is in the room.

• Verifies specimen collected with requisition, accession and prepare specimen for transport to laboratory.

• Prepares specimen containers, label specimens during procedures for transporting, i.e. PAP smears or pathology specimens.

• Performs all point of care testing as ordered and document results in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) and log sheets as per established policy, which includes but are not limited to glucose finger stick, urine pregnancy test, HIV test, HCV, urine dipstick and document in the patient Electronic Medical Record (EMR).

• Monitors and records refrigerator temperature in the laboratory, performs and records POCT quality controls.

• Performs hearing and vision screening for age appropriate patients or as ordered.

• Obtains peak flow readings ordered by the provider.

• Operates, tests, prepares and maintains medical equipment for diagnostic, therapeutic, and/or treatment procedures; performs other technical services as appropriate and required.

• Documents all patient information and contact in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) and notifies the nurse on the unit immediately for any out of range values.

• Observes and reports changes in client’s physical, mental, and/or emotional conditions(s) to appropriate personnel.

• Assists with orientation and training of new employees as required.

• Performs CPR, basic first aid, wound care, EKG testing as appropriate and required.

• As a member of the health care team, participates in pre-visit planning, daily clinical huddles, and other activities to meet Patient Centered Medical Home Standards.

• Identifies Care Gaps and works with the team to close gaps through proactive outreach, patient education, referrals, and needed services.

• May participate in coordination of care activities through Accountable Care Organizations (ACO) and in the development and implementation of other patient care/health care delivery initiatives.

• Registers and discharges patients in the EPIC System, the Electronic Medical Record (EMR).

• Adheres to standard work flows and completes EPIC work queues as assigned.

• Answer client inquiries and calls; schedules appointments and specialized tests; makes appropriate referrals.

• Coordinates and schedules appointments for one or more facilities; records pertinent information into appropriate database.

• Contacts patients to reschedule appointments due to no shows or provider emergency.

• Validates PCP assignment, makes corrections or directs patient to Managed Care to change providers as needed.

• Makes reminder calls to remind patients of appointments or when automated system is not functioning.

• Prepares examination and treatment rooms; ensures an adequate supply of sterile and proper functioning instruments and equipment inventories and orders medical supplies and materials as required.

• Ensures exam rooms are adequately stocked with supplies.

• Maintains inventory of the unit’s practice equipment and supplies and notify the Head Nurse/Supervisor when par levels become low.

• Cleans and disinfects equipment after each patient use and ensures examination room is in order for the next patient to be seen.

• Prepares dirty/soil instruments for transport to central sterilization as per policy.

• Maintains a clean and safe of work environment.

• Assists in the performance of simple first aid, such as dressing changes, bandaging and cleansing of wounds.

• Explains care being performed to the patient and answer any questions or concerns. Seek assistance when needed.

• Maintains patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPPA standards and guidelines.

• Works effectively as a team member in the delivery of care and assist in the orientation of new employees.

• Reports any injuries or incidents to the Head Nurse/Supervisor immediately.

• Reports any patient incidents or changes in condition to the care team immediately.

• Complies with standard work created on the unit to improve the patient experience.

• Participates in ongoing internal and external continuing education/training to enhance self-development and acquire skills needed for the changing health care environment.

• Provides basic education to patient regarding, scheduling follow-up and specialty referral appointments and reminds patient of the importance of returning for follow up and provide any additional instructions as instructed by the provider.

• Portrays customer service characteristics conducive to working harmoniously with team members and offers excellence in patient/family customer relations.

• Participates in quality improvement activities and performance improvement projects.

• Accesses interpretation services for patient as needed or when requested.

• Uses safe body mechanics to assist patient in and out of a wheelchair and on or off an exam table.

• Actively participates in Community Outreach Projects and represents the Gotham Health care network in a professional positive manner.

• Demonstrates appropriate age specific competencies.

Judgment and Decision Making

• Communicates pertinent client information to the treatment team.

• Demonstrates effective conflict and negotiating management skills.

• Advises the treatment team of situations that require follow-up care and/or of additional health services that the client(s) may need.

• Addresses issues or situations that require immediate or additional attention; informs Supervisor or other appropriate personnel of such situations.

• Immediately reports extreme and dangerous changes in the client’s condition and/or behavior to medical personnel.

• Immediately reports hazardous conditions which can endanger the well-being of clients, visitors, and staff to the appropriate personnel.

• Immediately reports individuals who appear to be misplaced, confused, or unaware of their surroundings to ensure their protection; remains with or watches them until appropriate personnel arrive.

• Immediately reports malfunctions in equipment and/or devices and other maintenance concerns to appropriate personnel.

• Knows when to seek assistance for performance of responsibilities.

• Ensures client confidentiality and discretion when discussing client related matters to those outside of the treatment team.

• Demonstrates effective verbal and written communication skills.

Relationships with Others

• Establishes and maintains a positive, supportive, and professional rapport with clients, visitors, coworkers and administration.

• Demonstrates ability to work in a diverse, multi-cultural environment; functions as a member of the overall healthcare team.

• Attends and contributes to in-service and departmental meetings.

• Demonstrates commitment to ensuring client/family satisfaction and to delivering quality care.

Knowledge of Job

Under the general supervision of licensed nurse:

• Adheres to all relevant corporate, hospital, and regulatory policies and procedures regarding client safety.

• Effectively and safely applies principles of aseptic techniques, infection control, and other safety precautions as required.

• Demonstrates competency in the administration of basic first aid and wound care and basic life support procedures.

• Demonstrates safe and proper practice in operation and maintenance of technical equipment.

• Demonstrates knowledge and ability in providing appropriate assistance during emergency equipment as required.

• Participates in ongoing education and training designed to continuously improve quality client care.

Safety Awareness

• Reports significant conditions which may affect safety of patient/staff/visitors.

• Assumes responsibility for safe work habits.

• Washes hand, wears disposable gloves and follows other universal precautions before working with sterile equipment.

• Operates equipment and preforms job-related duties in a safe manner.

• Adheres to the Joint Commission’s National Patient Safety Goals as appropriate.

• Follows safety signs, warnings, and directions; knows the location of emergency exits, equipment, treatment areas and other relevant services.

• Follows fire prevention policies and demonstrates an awareness of responsibility during fires.

• Follows disaster protocols and demonstrates an awareness of responsibility during disasters.

• Follows established infection control protocols

• Demonstrates understanding of impending emergencies and immediate action.

• Supports and reinforces policies regarding patient care, as well as safety and infection control

Personnel Responsibilities

• Follows corporate and facility regulations, policies, and procedures.

• Reports on time and ready to work at start of the shift, complies with time and leave policies.

• Provides proper notification for absences and tardiness.

• Observes facility policies governing conduct at work such as telephone usage.

• Accepts reassignment to other units and schedules when necessary.

• Observes facility uniform/dress code.

• Wears identification name badge while on facility premises.

• Conducts oneself in a professional and respectful manner while on duty.

• Customer service behavior and attitude.

• Completes annual mandates and annual in-services.

• Responsible for maintaining BCLS, EKG and Phlebotomy certification.

• Conforms to policies governing patient abuse, patient rights and confidentiality of patient information.

• Performs other duties as assigned or requested by Nursing Administration within the scope of practice.

• Work/or maintain EPIC work queues.

• Adherence to wearing allocated uniforms.

• Evenings/or weekend assignments as needed

• Follow standardized work for Treat to Target

Minimum Qualifications

Qualification Requirements:
1. High school diploma or its educational equivalent, approved by a State’s Department of Education or a recognized accrediting organization; and
2. Successful completion of training courses including the performance of phlebotomy and
electrocardiography (EKG), or completion of a training program or programs that include the performance of phlebotomy and EKG, such as Phlebotomy Technician and EKG Technician training programs, a Patient Care training program, or a Medical Assistant training program; and
3. Holds, or obtains through facility orientation, a valid and current certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) through the American Heart Association (AHA).
Special Note:
In addition to meeting the qualifications above, assignment to a long-term care facility requires New York State Nurse’s Aide certification.

Department Preferences

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE JOB:

CERTIFICATION(S)/LICENSE(S):

• Current BCLS Certification

• EKG and Phlebotomy Certification

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL:

• A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent, and

• Successful completion of a NYS Department of Health prescribed training program for phlebotomy, satisfactory to the laboratory director and appropriate to the workload of the facility.

• Completion of a facility-based training program in the performance of basic clinical techniques and electrocardiograph.

KNOWLEDGEABLE IN:

• Spanish or a second language preferred

• Proficiency in English and a second language preferred

• Effective Interpersonal Skills, Excellent Customer Service oriented behavior/attitude

EQUIPMENT/MACHINES OPERATED:

• 12 Lead EKG

• Peak Flow Meter

• POCT equipment

• Audioscope

• Manual and Automatic B/P machine

• Scale

• Thermometer

• Computer

• Copier/fax/Scanner/Printer/Phones

COMPUTER PROGRAMS/SOFTWARE OPERATED

• Computer literacy essential

• Word programs

• Electronic Medical Record

• Referral System

• Scheduling System

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:

• 1 year of ambulatory care working experience preferred

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Walking, bending, typing, lifting

How To Apply

If you wish to apply for this position, please apply online by clicking the "Apply for Job" button

NYC Health and Hospitals offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

• Comprehensive Health Benefits for employees hired to work 20+ hrs. per week
• Retirement Savings and Pension Plans
• Loan Forgiveness Programs for eligible employees
• Paid Holidays and Vacation in accordance with employees' Collectively bargained contracts
• College tuition discounts and professional development opportunities
• Multiple employee discounts programs

Vacancy Control Board Number

VCB #: BWY-07172025-37082