Patient Navigator (Dental)

Title: Patient Navigator (Dental)

Reports To: Dental Program Manager

Direct Reports: N/A

Classification/Category: Admin Level I

Workgroup(s): N/A

Work Status: Hybrid

Stipend(s): None

Status: Non-Exempt

The Dental Patient Navigator supports patient outreach, care coordination, and clinical quality improvement efforts within RCCHC’s Dental Program. This role focuses on increasing access to dental care by conducting outreach at RCCHC sites and School-Based Health Centers to identify and recruit children who would benefit from dental services. The Navigator provides age-appropriate oral health education to children and families, including proper brushing and flossing, the importance of routine dental visits, nutrition, and prevention of dental disease, and assists with preventive services such as fluoride varnish application when appropriate and within their scope of practice and training. The Navigator also assists with scheduling dental appointments, following up with patients and families, addressing barriers related to Social Drivers of Health (SDoH), and connecting children and families to appropriate dental services. They work closely with dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, administrative staff, and other RCCHC programs to promote preventive dental care, increase utilization of dental services, and improve oral health outcomes.

Mission: Great care for every one every day.

Vision: Striving to be the premier healthcare provider, dedicated to and supported by the people we serve.

Values: (R)espectful, (C)ompassionate, (C)aring, (H)onest, (C)omitted

Roanoke Chowan Community Health Center will provide open access, community-oriented primary care of the highest quality to all residents, migrants and seasonal farmworkers, as well as, visitors of Hertford, Bertie, Northampton, Gates, Washington and surrounding counties, regardless of their ability to pay. 

Ability to read, write and comprehend instructions in the English language. Communicate effectively. Interact in a respectful and professional manner with internal and external customers. Ability to gather and synthesize information. Must be void of any drug convictions or related charges. Able to travel to other RCCHC site. Understanding of, and sensitivity to, the diverse populations, socioeconomic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds to the communities we serve.

Education: High school diploma or GED with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Public Health, or Human Services preferred. Equivalent combination of education and/or work experience with a minimum of 3 years of experience in Community Health, Social Work, or Case management.

Experience: 

• Experience working in a multi-cultural setting
• Minimum 2 years in a health care or public service office setting
• Experience in patient navigation, case management, and care coordination coordinating community resources
• Basic computer skills required, electronic medical record (EMR) experience preferred

Certification(s)/Licensure: N/A

Knowledge:

• Knowledge and understanding of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC’s) in regard to the Federal 330 Public Health Service Act, operations, mission, and patient population
• Knowledge of healthcare system navigation, including primary care, specialty care, behavioral health, and social services
• Familiarity with health insurance programs (Medicaid, Medicare, Sliding Fee Scales, Commercial)
• Awareness of community resources and support services
• Understanding of Social determinants of Health (SDoH) and health disparities
• Knowledge of computer systems and applications.

Skills:

·  Establishing and maintaining professional boundaries in a healthcare environment.

·  Applying sound judgment when addressing routine situations and determining when additional assistance is needed.

·  Using effective problem-solving and critical-thinking techniques.

·  Managing information accurately and maintaining attention to detail.

·  Adapting communication approaches to different situations and audiences.

·  Utilizing electronic health records, Microsoft Office, and other technology relevant to the 

position.

·  Applying knowledge of basic oral health concepts and preventive care practices.

·  Working effectively within established procedures, guidelines, and regulatory requirements.

Abilities:

·  Build positive rapport with children, families, and community members.

·  Work effectively with individuals from varied backgrounds, experiences, and circumstances.

·  Remain professional, patient, and approachable in challenging situations.

·  Manage multiple responsibilities and adjust priorities as needed.

·  Work independently with minimal supervision.

·  Demonstrate dependability, accountability, and follow-through.

·  Maintain discretion when handling confidential and sensitive information.

·  Learn and apply new procedures, technology, and job-related information.

·  Work in a fast-paced healthcare environment while maintaining a professional demeanor.

·  Demonstrate flexibility in response to changing program and organizational needs.

·  Conduct pediatric dental outreach and recruitment at RCCHC locations, School-Based Health Centers, schools, and community settings.

·  Identify children patients who may benefit from dental services through outreach activities, referrals, and assigned patient lists.

·  Coordinate with School-Based Health Centers, schools, and community partners to facilitate pediatric dental access.

·  Assist patients and families with scheduling dental appointments and navigating available RCCHC services.

·  Conduct appointment reminder and follow-up activities to support patient attendance and continued engagement in care.

·  Identify barriers affecting access to dental care and connect patients and families with appropriate resources.

·  Provide basic oral health education and preventive care information to children and families.

·  Assist with preventive oral health services, including fluoride varnish application, as permitted by training, organizational policy, and applicable scope of practice requirements.

·  Support pediatric dental outreach events, health fairs, school activities, and other community initiatives.

·  Review assigned patient information to support identification of preventive care needs and care gaps.

·  Enter Document and maintain required outreach, navigation, education, and preventive service information in the EMR and other designated systems or platforms.

·  Compile and report assigned program and outreach data.

·  Participate in dental quality improvement and population health initiatives.

·  Attend staff meetings and complete required training and professional development activities.

·  Perform other duties as assigned.