MSA HSN LINKAGE NAVIGATOR - Central Islip, NY

About the role

Linkage Navigator is responsible for providing HIV Navigation Services (HNS) for People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) and individuals who engage in high-risk behaviors at risk of contracting HIV. Work collaboratively with the Targeted Prevention Educator to promote the comprehensive delivery of program services.

Responsibilities

• Provide HIV Navigation Services (HNS) for eligible clients.
• Conduct appropriate assessments, develop and monitor client-centered action plans.
• Input client data into required client management systems (AIRS, Cap60).
• Link and retain individuals in medical care, treatment, and appropriate care.
• Refer and link individuals to HIV/STI/HCV testing/screening and PrEP & PeP services.
• Monitor client’s status and follow up on delivery of HNS services.
• Develop relationships with local providers to maximize linkage to care and ensure successful linkages to appropriate care, testing, and resources for clients.
• Attend community events to increase awareness of agency programs, HIV/STI/HCV testing, and screening.
• Responsible for maintaining, reviewing, and regularly updating ongoing client records and progress notes according to agency policy and procedures.
• Participate in monthly AIRS User Group call/webinars.
• Participate in Agency Consumer Advisory Board Meetings.
• Attend all required and relevant trainings.
• Participate in Quality Improvement activities as directed by Quality Assurance Compliance Officer.
• Other responsibilities as directed by supervisory staff.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of HIV/STI infection, transmission, and prevention.
• Knowledge of community resources and referrals for HIV/STIs, mental/behavioral health, care coordination, and appropriate client-centric referrals.
• Ability to work as part of a team with co-workers and other colleagues as necessary.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.
• Willing to work evenings and weekends (flex-time provided).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with people of diverse races, ethnicities, nationalities, sexual orientations, gender identities, socio-economic backgrounds, religions, ages, English-speaking abilities, immigration status, and physical abilities in a multicultural environment.
• Minimum two years' experience in HIV/STI prevention or related field.
• Ability to follow directions (orally and in writing).

Education/Training/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Community Health Education or related field plus two years of experience and/or 3 to 4 years related field experience.
• Must have extensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS/STIs transmission and prevention.
• A candidate who does not have a degree but seems exceptionally suitable will be considered if they can demonstrate additional years of relevant experience in exchange for the educational requirement.
• Must be knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS prevention in diverse communities including MSM of color, women of color, injection drug users, and persons who exchange sex for resources.

Requirements

• Valid Driver's License and Insured Vehicle.
• PPD Test with proof.