LPN Patient Navigator

Under general supervision of the Nursing Supervisor, this position performs care coordination and professional nursing functions to assess the severity of patient health concerns using protocols and algorithms. The role provides patient dispositions to emergency care, clinic provider appointments, and triage nurse clinic services within the scope of licensed practice, with a strong community health/public health orientation.

Responsibilities

• Support providers in triaging all walk-in patients as part of a care coordination team.
• Schedule and direct patient telephone calls, including walk-in patients requesting health care services.
• Evaluate and assess patient health care needs based on signs and symptoms using established triage protocols.
• Obtain input and direction from providers to determine the best clinical course of action for patient needs.
• Accurately document symptoms, advice provided, and patient responses in compliance with policies and protocols.
• Coordinate and schedule future, same-day, and walk-in appointments on provider schedules.
• Monitor patient flow in the clinic to ensure timely delivery of recommended services.
• Perform other nursing functions as assigned, including assisting with special procedures and prescription refills.
• Forward pertinent medical information to proper departments for continuity of care.
• Document triage assessments, plans, implementation, evaluation, and follow-up in the electronic health record (EHR).
• Track patients who "no show" for appointments and complete new patient paperwork.
• Complete other duties as assigned by the Nursing Director.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years of healthcare experience (e.g., Certified Nursing Aide, Medication Aide, or Medical Assistant).
• Previous experience in a rural health clinic preferred.
• At least 1 year of triage experience preferred.
• Proven leadership, physician relations, and communication skills.
• Currently CPR certified.

Skills

• Knowledge of disease processes, normal growth, and development across all age groups.
• Community health knowledge and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations.
• General computer skills and experience with EHR systems.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude amid changing conditions and handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with a professional and mature demeanor.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, prioritizing tasks effectively under pressure.
• Resourcefulness in resolving problems.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Dependent Care Spending Account.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with up to 4% employer contribution.
• Earned Time Off and Extended Illness Bank (hospital contribution).
• Employer-paid life insurance and long-term/short-term disability.
• Voluntary Life & AD&D insurance.
• Free 24-hour fitness center access.
• Hospital Indemnity and MASA (Medical Transportation Solutions).

Schedule

Full-time position.

Work Environment

• Indoor setting with frequent exposure to mild physical discomfort from dust, fumes, temperature, and noise.
• Physical demands include sitting, standing/walking, and lifting/handling materials or equipment of moderate weight (20 to 50 lbs).