Position Summary The Outpatient Navigator is responsible for coordinating post-emergency department (ED) follow-up care for recently discharged patients. This role serves as a critical bridge between the emergency department, primary care providers, specialists, and community resources to improve continuity of care, reduce avoidable readmissions, and enhance patient outcomes. The ideal candidate is a clinically experienced and patient-centered healthcare professional with strong communication, organizational, and care coordination skills. Candidates must possess experience as a Medical Assistant (MA) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Key Responsibilities Review emergency department discharge reports and identify patients requiring outpatient follow-up. Contact discharged patients to assess needs, reinforce discharge instructions, and coordinate timely follow-up appointments. Schedule appointments with primary care providers, specialists, imaging, laboratory services, or other ancillary services as appropriate. Assist patients with barriers to care including transportation, insurance concerns, medication access, or community resource needs. Educate patients on treatment plans, medications, follow-up recommendations, and warning signs requiring further medical attention. Collaborate with physicians, nursing staff, care managers, and outpatient practices to ensure seamless transitions of care. Document all patient outreach, care coordination activities, and follow-up outcomes in the electronic medical record (EMR). Monitor high-risk patient populations and escalate concerns to clinical leadership when necessary. Support organizational goals related to patient satisfaction, quality metrics, and reduced ED utilization/readmissions.

Qualifications Required:

Current certification/licensure as one of the following: Medical Assistant (MA) LPN Minimum of 2 years of clinical healthcare experience. Experience in emergency department, ambulatory care, care coordination, case management, or population health preferred. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to multitask and manage high patient outreach volumes. Proficiency with electronic medical records (EMR/EHR) systems.

Preferred:

Experience with transitional care management or patient navigation programs. Knowledge of insurance authorization processes and community resources. Bilingual abilities are a plus. Skills & Competencies Patient-centered communication Care coordination and navigation Critical thinking and problem-solving Time management and organization Team collaboration Documentation accuracy Empathy and professionalism Work Environment Primarily outpatient/office-based setting Frequent telephone outreach and EMR documentation Collaboration with emergency department and outpatient clinical teams Goals of the Role Improve patient access to timely follow-up care Reduce unnecessary emergency department revisits Improve continuity of care and patient outcomes Enhance patient satisfaction and engagement