Job Description
SUMMARY All staff positions at SCHC will strive to provide patient-centered, team-based, and trauma-sensitive health care. Patient Advocate team members will perform the focused, essential duties and responsibilities outlined in their job description. The primary role of SCHC's Patient Advocates is to connect patients to appropriate resources based on their barriers to care and health goals. The outreach portion of this position is involved in community health care events to educate our service area's catchment about Sunshine Clinic's medical, dental, behavioral health, and care management services for each service location. This position also acts as the primary contact person for any domestic violence (DV) victim issues and collaborates with SCHC Behavioral Health to support the most appropriate resources for a possible DV crisis.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Serve as the primary resource for financial eligibility assistance. Assess new and established patients for health-related social needs and health literacy. Explain Sunshine services, including the Sliding Fee Scale, 340B Medication Program, and SCHC Chronic Care Management Program. Act as the primary resource for applications and assistance with Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security/Disability, Heating Assistance, Senior Benefits, hospital bill forgiveness, and grant applications, including follow-up on any denials. Connect patients with community resources such as local food banks, Meals on Wheels, and Families in Crisis. Determine eligibility and distribute Senior Farmer's Market Nutrition Program funds (summer service). Coordinate Medicaid travel authorizations with transportation companies and obtain approval through Conduent Travel for relevant appointments. Provide short-term, non-clinical coordination for patients related to social services such as AK Legal, Medicaid Waivers, Miller's Trusts, Valley Residential, and Weatherization. Collaborate to identify the needs and priorities of patients and communities, and participate in outreach interventions that address identified needs. Serve as a liaison between patients, the community, and available health care and social service resources. Assist patients in completing medical intake, consent, and financial forms, using appropriate health literacy approaches. Coordinate appointments when needed to assist patients with insurance forms, state ID replacement, PFD paperwork, PCA referrals, and durable medical equipment (DME). Monitor incoming correspondence daily, including Teams messages, email, alerts, flags, and the patient portal. Participate in outreach events such as Social Security open enrollment, Marketplace Insurance enrollment (CAC), and Homeless Connect. Maintain Certified Application Counselor (CAC) certification, including completion of annual certification training and testing, in order to assist patients with Marketplace Insurance. Collaborate in organizing and participating in community health care events. Participate in monthly staff meetings, action team meetings, and other SCHC activities. Participate in relevant training and educational opportunities for personal and professional development. Maintain confidentiality regarding patient and employee information. Maintain a desk procedure manual. Complete additional responsibilities related to patient advocacy and outreach as requested. EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or GED required. A minimum of 2 years of community work experience is required. A current driver's license and proof of liability insurance are also required. GENERAL To ensure the health of our community, patients, and staff, SCHC requires proof of completed vaccine series or serologic test results for MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella), Varicella (Chicken Pox), Tdap, and Hepatitis B, as well as TB screening, prior to employment.
