Patient Navigator (Healthcare for the Homeless)

The Patient Navigator will support the DMHAS Street Outreach Program Manager in implementing programs within the Homeless Department. They will conduct outreach in streets, shelters, soup kitchens, and camps, building trusting relationships with patients to help them set goals for housing and healthcare. The role includes coordinating with community agencies, advocating for clients at the hospital and medical appointments, assisting with obtaining IDs, and helping patients navigate applications for medical and social benefits. The Patient Navigator also ensures a smooth transition for patients to housing case management partners. 

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to: 

• The Patient Navigator engages patients in person, helping them access resources, and manages an average of 17 individuals.
• Conducts street outreach in the New Haven region to connect unsheltered individuals with services and the Coordinated Access Network (CAN).
• Facilitate clients’ entry into treatment, assist with obtaining IDs, and help patients navigate applications for medical and social benefits.
• Will educate, encourage, and support patients in connecting with social services, offering tailored assistance based on each patient's readiness and willingness to engage.
• Responsible for ensuring notes are entered in Epic, Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), And DDAP systems per program requirement and data quality standards.
• Complete verification of homelessness and assist with completing verification of disability from the providers in support of the CAN Entry and Exit process.
• Operates and maintains the mobile office ensuring a clean, and safe operation. 
• Performs all other duties as assigned by the Grant or department manager.

Requirements: 

• High school diploma/GED required. Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, certified addiction counselor, peer specialist, public health or equivalent preferred. Lived experience may be substituted for formal work history/education.
• Human Service experience is preferred. 
• Excellent working knowledge of the New Haven community and social and health service agencies is preferred.  
• Experience with underserved populations including the African American and Latino/ Latinx populations. 
• Cultural competence/ humility and ability to establish rapport with diverse groups of people.
• Knowledge of HIPAA.
• Bilingual ability is preferred.
• Must be willing and prepared to work outside in all weather conditions and be flexible to work at least two early morning and two evening shifts per week.
• Those with medical qualifications will be expected to use them to the level of their training to assist providers in the field.

Travel within the State of Connecticut is required on a regular basis with possible occasional travel outside the state.