Patient Navigator

JOB DESCRIPTION

The position description is a guide to the critical duties and essential functions of the job, not an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, qualifications, physical demands, and work environment conditions. Position descriptions are reviewed and revised to meet the changing needs of the organization.

TITLE: Patient Navigator

JOB OVERVIEW: The Patient Navigator plays a key role in supporting patients by assisting patients with their care at Valley Medical Center & Clinics, improving patients'' access to the organization''s resources, and promoting positive health outcomes. This position focuses on proactive patient outreach, care coordination, and identifying and resolving barriers that may impact a patient''s ability to manage their health effectively. The Patient Navigator partners closely with clinicians, clinical staff, community organizations, and patients to help reduce avoidable emergency department visits and hospitalizations while improving the overall patient experience.

DEPARTMENT: Clinic Network

WORK HOURS: Typically Monday - Friday, 8:00a to 4:30p. Hours may vary dependent on clinic needs and flexibility may be required.

REPORTS TO: Manager, Clinic

PREREQUISITES:

High school Diploma required. Associate''s Degree in a healthcare related field of study preferred.

Minimum of two (2) years of experience in an ambulatory healthcare setting required Experience must include working progressively within an electronic health record system (EPIC preferred).

Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and interact positively with patients, peers, and providers required.

Must complete the Washington State Department of Health Community Health Worker (CHW) core training program within 6 months of employment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Demonstrated ability to access, analyze, and apply concepts associated with protocol, policy and guidelines.

Demonstrated understanding of Joint Commission and DOH requirements.

Demonstrated ability to maintain a calm demeanor at all times.

Ability to independently organize, set priorities; produce accurate work, and meet deadlines.

Good written and oral communication skills; excellent organizational skills

UNIQUE PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS, ENVIRONMENT AND WORKING CONDITIONS: See Generic Job Description/Administrative Partner

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Generic Job Functions: See Generic Job Description for Administrative Partner

Essential Responsibilities and Competencies:

Assist patients with navigating their care plan and coordinate patient care across clinicians, specialists, hospitals, and community resources.

Serve as a patient advocate and support patients in understanding care plans, medications, and preventive care recommendations.

Help identify and address barriers to care, including transportation, medication access, financial concerns, food insecurity, housing instability, and health literacy.

Maintain current knowledge of community resources, services, and support programs to facilitate appropriate referrals and connections.

Assist patients with scheduling appointments, referrals, follow-up care, and transitions after hospital or emergency department visits.

Educate or provide clarification to patients on provider or discharge instructions, hospital billing policies, and other pertinent information regarding the health system.

Conduct outreach to patients identified as high-risk or in need of additional support.

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support coordinated, patient-centered care.

Connect patients with internal and external resources, support programs, and community services.

Monitor patient progress and maintain ongoing communication to encourage adherence to treatment plans and follow-up care.

Collaborate with other Valley Medical Center staff, clinicians, and interdisciplinary care teams to ensure coordinated, patient-centered care.

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