Community Health Worker

Overview

Company Overview: At Essen Health Care, we care for that!

As the largest privately held multispecialty medical group in the Bronx, we provide high-quality, compassionate, and accessible medical care to some of the most vulnerable and under-served residents of New York State. Guided by a Population Health model of care, Essen has five integrated clinical divisions offering urgent care, primary care, and specialty services, as well as nursing home staffing and care management. Founded in 1999, our over 20-year commitment has fueled an unwavering dedication toward innovating a better healthcare delivery system. Essen has expanded from a single primary care office to an umbrella organization offering specialties from women's health to endocrinology, from psychiatry to a vast array of other specialties. All clinical services are offered via telehealth or in-person at over 35 medical offices and at home through the Essen House Calls program.

Essen Health Care is the place Where Care Comes Together! We are looking for the most talented and effective individuals to join our rapidly growing company. With over 1,100 employees and 400+ Practitioners, we care for over 250,000 patients annually in New York City and beyond. From medical providers to administration & operational staff, there is a career here for you. Join our team today!

Job Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Community Health Worker (CHW) to provide essential health navigation, education, and advocacy support underserved individuals. This position plays a vital role in connecting community members to healthcare and community resources, addressing barriers to care, and empowering individuals to manage their health effectively. The ideal candidate will be culturally competent, skilled in advocacy, resource coordination, and health education, and committed to supporting individuals in overcoming health and social challenges.

Responsibilities

Health Navigation and Resource Coordination:

• Assist individuals in navigating healthcare services, ensuring access to both medical and community-based resources.

• Facilitate effective "closed loop" referrals, ensuring individuals are connected to the appropriate services and providers.

• Help individuals connect to support services addressing social determinants of health, including housing, employment, transportation, food security, childcare, and more.

• Support individuals in enrolling in and maintaining participation in government assistance programs, providing education on available services without making decisions on their behalf.

Health Education and Empowerment:

• Provide tailored health education that aligns with individual needs, life experiences, and goals, promoting health and preventing illness or injury.

• Deliver evidence-based training and information on health topics, addressing barriers to healthcare access and promoting self-management of health conditions.

• Promote self-confidence, informed decision-making, and active participation in health care, empowering individuals to take charge of their health and well-being.

Advocacy and Cultural Competency:

• Serve as an advocate for individuals, bridging gaps in healthcare and addressing barriers such as language, culture, and socioeconomic status.

• Act as a cultural and linguistic broker, ensuring equitable access to care for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including various ethnicities, races, and genders.

• Collaborate with healthcare teams and community partners to ensure individuals receive comprehensive and culturally appropriate care.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with healthcare teams, community organizations, and resources to ensure individuals receive the necessary support and follow-up.

• Maintain open and empathetic communication with individuals to ensure they feel heard and supported throughout their healthcare journey.

• Foster collaboration to empower individuals in making informed decisions about their health and utilizing available resources effectively.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Keep accurate records of interactions, referrals, and services provided to individuals, ensuring that all documentation is up-to-date and comprehensive.

• Prepare reports to evaluate the effectiveness of advocacy efforts and the overall health navigation and education program.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in public health, social work, or a related field preferred.

• Experience in community health, social services, or advocacy, particularly working with Medicaid members or diverse populations.

• Knowledge of Medicaid services, community resources, and social determinants of health.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with individuals from various backgrounds.

• Proficiency in culturally informed practices and evidence-based health education methods.

• Bilingual or multilingual skills are a plus.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks and priorities effectively.

Working Conditions:

• This position is site based but may require travel within the community to meet with individuals and organizations.

Equal Opportunity Employer

ESSEN HEALTH CARE IS PROUD TO BE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Essen Health care is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we seek candidates who desire to work in and serve an ethnically diverse population.