Care Navigator - Clinic

Do work that matters in a culture that means it. Be part of a team that values connection, accountability, and real impact. At Access, our Culture Playbook isn’t just a poster on the wall—it’s how we show up for each other and for the people we support. You’ll be part of a team that is clear about expectations, supportive, accountable, and focused on outcomes that matter to people.

About the role

The Care Navigator (CN) works closely with individuals to promote effective connection and collaboration to services. Care Navigators are committed to removing barriers to care by identifying critical resources, navigating health care services, insurance plans, and systems. They help individuals "navigate" the maze of insurances, administrative systems, and support services, focusing on integrating services around the individual’s needs. Effective Care Navigators build working relationships, solve problems, direct to resources, and manage information.

Responsibilities

• Act as an advocate and assist in coordination of care to minimize fragmentation of health care delivery systems.
• Gather insurance information and assist in navigating complex healthcare and insurance systems.
• Assist in securing health insurance and completing paperwork for the sliding scale fee.
• Complete referrals to care management services and other internal/external services as needed.
• For referrals to care management (internal), follow up with the individual until a warm hand-off to care management is complete.
• Identify and effectively utilize community resources to meet the needs of the member/family and facilitate access to them.
• Care across the healthcare continuum and optimize clinical and financial outcomes.
• Maintain a working knowledge of payer requirements and negotiate on behalf of the member for cost-effective, high-quality services.
• Serve as a liaison to providers, members, and families for coordination of services.
• Document all interventions using the Complex Care Management billable documentation.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team.

Community Engagement and Outreach

• Routinely engage with members and potential members in community settings (homes, shelters, community centers, etc.) to address barriers to care and facilitate service access.
• Conduct community-based resource identification and networking to establish and maintain partnerships with local organizations.
• Represent the organization at community health fairs, meetings, and events to promote services and identify individuals needing care navigation support.
• Provide safe and reliable transportation for clients to and from appointments, resource centers, and other essential services as required.

Additional Support

• Build strong working relationships with internal and external partners.
• Support organizational priorities through adaptability and process improvement.
• Contribute to department goals by maintaining open communication and professional collaboration.
• Utilize Electronic Health Records and other systems for accurate and timely documentation.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and other organizational development initiatives as required.

Qualifications

• Excellent written, verbal, and listening abilities; ability to communicate clearly with staff and providers.
• Willingness to establish effective working relationships with internal and external providers/resources.
• Ability to manage conflict, stress, and multiple simultaneous work demands professionally.
• Ability to work well independently while collaborating with team members.
• Self-motivated, with the ability to prioritize and adapt to changing organizational priorities.
• Ability to make independent decisions in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of and appreciation for cultural diversity and low literacy issues in care provision.
• Computer literacy, including ability to navigate Electronic Health Records and other systems.
• Willingness and ability to travel locally and work in various community settings.

Education and Experience

One of the following is required:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Human Services or related field (social work, psychology, nursing, rehabilitation, education, occupational therapy, physical therapy, recreation or recreation therapy, counseling, community mental health, child and family studies, sociology, speech and hearing, or other human services field).
• NYS licensure and registration as a Registered Nurse and a bachelor’s degree.
• Bachelor’s level education or higher in any field with five years of experience working directly with highly vulnerable populations (e.g., those with health, behavioral health, or substance use issues).
• Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) or equivalent experience in behavioral health, human services, or related field.

Additional requirements:

• Two years of experience linking individuals with serious mental illness (SMI), developmental disabilities, or alcoholism/substance abuse to a broad range of community services. A Master’s degree in a related field may substitute for one year of experience.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a clean driving record for client transportation purposes.
• Bilingual (English and Spanish) preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Able to work in an open-space floor plan.
• Capable of moving throughout the workday.
• Occasional lifting of 15+ pounds.

Pay

$28.84 per hour

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM