Patient Navigator

Description

JOB SUMMARY: 

The Patient Navigator is responsible for guiding patients through the healthcare system with a primary focus on managing and coordinating medical referrals.  This role ensures patients receive timely access to specialty care and other services by facilitating referrals, addressing barriers to care, and providing education and support throughout the process. The Patient Navigator works closely with clinical staff, providers, and external organizations to improve care continuity and patient outcomes.  

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position provides supervision to others: No

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Coordinate and process patient referrals to specialty providers, imaging services, and other healthcare resources.
  
  
• Communicate with referring and receiving providers to ensure all necessary information is shared and appointments are scheduled appropriately.
  
  
• Track the status of referrals and follow up with patients and providers to ensure completion.
  
  
• Educate patients about the referral process, including insurance requirements, appointment preparation, and follow-up expectations.
  
  
• Serve as a liaison between patients and healthcare providers, assisting with scheduling, transportation, language services, or other needs.
  
  
• Document all referral activities and patient interactions accurately in the electronic medical record (EMR) system.

Other Duties:

1. Participates in outreach programs to educate the community about healthcare services.
2. Stays informed on healthcare policies and changes that may affect patient navigation.
3. Assists with special projects and initiatives aimed at improving patient care coordination.

SKILLS & ABILITIES: 

1. Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities for patient interactions and staff training.
2. Problem-solving skills with a patient-centered approach.
3. Ability to handle sensitive patient information with confidentiality and professionalism.
4. Proficiency in using electronic health record (EHR) systems and patient management software.
5.  Knowledge of healthcare policies, insurance processes, and patient advocacy.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS :

• High School Diploma
• Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Social Work, Nursing, or a related field preferred.
• Certification in patient navigation, case management, or healthcare advocacy is a plus.

EXPERIENCE:

• Certification in patient navigation, case management, or healthcare advocacy is a plus.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

(The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the position’s essential functions.)

• Light work with some physical demands such as continuously lifting/moving materials less than 25 pounds, but rarely moving more than 25 to 50 pounds.