Spanish/Bilingual Patient Navigator/Medical Social Worker

Organization: Iowa City Free Medical & Dental Clinic

Status: 15 – 20 hours/week

Job Summary:

Join a passionate team dedicated to making a tangible difference in patients' lives. We're looking for someone with exceptional people-skills to help us expand access to quality healthcare for the uninsured and underinsured.  The Patient Navigator/Medical Social Worker plays a vital role in ensuring patients at the Iowa City Free Medical & Dental Clinic have access to essential healthcare services and community resources. This position focuses on providing comprehensive support to patients, particularly in navigating financial assistance programs and connecting them with resources to address social determinants of health. The Patient Navigator/Medical Social Worker will work closely with clinic staff and leadership to facilitate smooth and efficient patient experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Financial Assistance Navigation:
  • Assist patients in identifying and applying for various financial assistance programs, including but not limited to patient financial assistance programs at UI Healthcare, Medicaid, Medicare, prescription assistance programs, and other relevant local, state, and federal programs.
  • Guide patients through the application process, ensuring accurate and complete documentation.
  • Advocate on behalf of patients to resolve issues related to application status and eligibility.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of available financial assistance programs and eligibility requirements.
• Community Resource Coordination:
  • Assess patients' social determinants of health needs, including housing, food security, transportation, and mental health.
  • Connect patients with appropriate community resources and services to address identified needs.
  • Maintain a comprehensive database of community resources and referral pathways.
  • Follow up with patients to ensure successful connection with referred services.
• Patient Advocacy and Support:
  • Provide compassionate and culturally sensitive support to patients facing various challenges.
  • Act as a patient advocate, ensuring their needs are met and their voices are heard.
  • Educate patients on available healthcare services and resources.
  • Help patients to understand and follow medical instructions.
• Communication and Collaboration:
  • Maintain clear and consistent communication with patients, clinic staff, and external partners.
  • Provide regular updates to the Director of Medical Operations and Director of Clinical Operations on the status of patient financial assistance approvals and resource connections.
  • Collaborate with medical providers and other clinic staff to ensure coordinated patient care.
  • Maintain accurate and confidential patient records.
• Data Management and Reporting:
  • Collect and track data related to patient navigation activities and outcomes.
  • Prepare reports on patient navigation services and identify areas for improvement.
  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives.
• Other Duties:
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Medical Operations and Director of Clinical Operations, including interpretation.

Qualifications:

• Fluency in written and oral Spanish
• Bachelor's degree in social work, public health, or a related field preferred but not required.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
• Interest in being part of a team. 
• Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft 365 and Google business suite.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality.

Skills:

• Written and oral Spanish fluency a must
• Written and/or oral fluency in French or Arabic a plus
• Patient advocacy
• Resource coordination
• Financial assistance navigation
• Crisis intervention
• Cultural competency
• Data entry and reporting

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to [Number] pounds.
• Ability to use a computer and other office equipment.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter to Jennie S. Schmidt, Executive Director by clicking apply now.