Community Health Worker Intern

At Memorial Hermann, we pursue a common goal of delivering high quality, efficient care while creating exceptional experiences for every member of our community. When we say every member of our community, that includes our employees. We know that when our employees feel cared for, heard and valued, they are inspired to create moments that exceed expectations, while prioritizing safety, compassion, personalization and efficiency. If you want to advance your career and contribute to our vision of creating healthier communities, now and for generations to come, we want you to be a part of our team.

Job Summary

The Community Health Worker (CHW) Intern plays a crucial role in promoting community wellness. The internship offers exposure to healthcare governance, organizational practices, and industry regulations. This position engages in department and system rotations, completing assigned projects under the guidance of the supporting manager. The CHW Intern will perform under the education / training modules and supervision provided by the CHW Intern Educator and the department managers of the three navigation programs. This position requires a commitment to improving public health and building strong connections within diverse communities. As such, in this role, interns will utilize community health and social services resources for uninsured and under-insured populations in identifying suitable medical, mental health, and dental homes by establishing connections with providers. The intern gains proficiency in completing eligibility applications, addressing access barriers, and ensuring effective follow-up. This internship will be a one (1) year rotational program in three (3) Community Benefits Corporation areas to help identify, provide exposure, and build awareness to optimal community resources that are tailored to patient needs.

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications

Education :  High school diploma or GED preferred.

Licenses / Certifications :   Certified Community Health Worker preferred.

Experience / Knowledge / Skills :

Effective oral and written communication skills.

Entry-level computer software skills – Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Knowledge and comprehension of general health issues.

Demonstrates critical thinking, sound judgement, and effective time and task management.

Excellent coordination and organizational skills.

Collaboration with healthcare providers and staff in the fast-paced, patient service-oriented environment.

Ability to navigate ambiguity or flexibility in different work environments.

Professional conduct in all work-related and emergent situations.

Principal Accountabilities

Collaborates with healthcare professionals to facilitate navigation services targeting uninsured and under-insured populations.

Conducts comprehensive assessments to gather information on patients’ demographics, financial status, and both health and social needs.

Advocates on behalf of the patient and family.

Identifies and connects patients with appropriate medical, mental health, and dental resources, fostering relationships with providers.

Acquires and employs proficiency in completing eligibility applications on behalf of patients, addressing access barriers through educational initiatives for community health services.

Focuses on promoting community wellness by providing follow-up services and ensuring individuals have access to optimal resources tailored to their needs.

Engages in department and system rotations, completing assigned projects under guidance of the supporting manager.

Gains insight into healthcare governance, organizational practices, and industry regulations.

Prioritizes and organizes daily work assignments efficiently, showcasing excellent coordination and organizational skills.

Enters necessary information into the computer system accurately and promptly.

Compiles reports, presentations, and operational documents.

Upholds professional conduct in all work-related and emergent situations within the fast-paced, patient service-oriented environment.

Ensures safe care to patients, staff and visitors; adheres to all Memorial Hermann policies, procedures, and standards within budgetary specifications including time management, supply management, productivity and quality of service.

Promotes individual professional growth and development by meeting requirements for mandatory / continuing education and skills competency; supports department-based goals which contribute to the success of the organization; serves as preceptor, mentor and resource to less experienced staff.

Demonstrates commitment to caring for every member of our community by creating compassionate and personalized experiences. Models Memorial Hermann’s service standards of providing safe, caring, personalized and efficient experiences to patients and our workforce.

Other duties as assigned.