Patient Navigator

About the role

The Patient Navigator contributes to AHF by providing short-term assistance to clients, with the goal of improving client engagement in the health care system and the HIV Continuum of Care. Clients are referred both internally from AHF clinical staff and externally through outside agencies and community partners.

Upon referral, the Patient Navigator meets clients where they are, directing them to appropriate services in person, in writing, by telephone, or through other modes of communication. These services are provided outside of outpatient/ambulatory medical care, case management, or non-medical care services, and require close collaboration with interdisciplinary staff to meet the client’s needs.

The Patient Navigator assists clients with completing initial Ryan White enrollment, six-month Ryan White attestation, and annual Ryan White recertification. For eligible clients, the Patient Navigator also supports enrollment in private insurance via the Affordable Care Act (ACA), ensuring that Ryan White remains the last payor source.

Additionally, the Patient Navigator initiates referrals to both agency and community service providers as necessary and completes a follow-up within ten business days to check the status of those referrals. For clients who require long-term assistance in addressing barriers to care, the Patient Navigator collaborates with Medical and Non-Medical Care Managers to support a smooth transition and continued engagement.

The Patient Navigator enhances the reputation of AHF by helping clients navigate the complexities of the health care system, facilitating access to quality treatment. The Patient Navigator plays a role in AHF retention efforts by calling clients to determine if they are connected to care, scheduling medical appointments, and ensuring that clients attend those appointments. They assist clients with scheduling medical transportation to and from medical and non-medical appointments as related to their care.

In addition to direct client services, the Patient Navigator assists in department-wide projects that support AHF’s mission, with a focus on getting clients into care and keeping them in care. Through these efforts, the Patient Navigator contributes to improved health outcomes and reinforces AHF’s commitment to client-centered support.

Responsibilities

• Provide short-term assistance to clients to improve engagement in the health care system and the HIV Continuum of Care.
• Direct clients to appropriate services through various modes of communication (in person, in writing, by telephone).
• Assist clients with Ryan White enrollment, six-month attestation, and annual recertification.
• Support eligible clients with enrollment in private insurance via the Affordable Care Act (ACA), ensuring Ryan White remains the last payor source.
• Initiate referrals to agency and community service providers and follow up within ten business days.
• Collaborate with Medical and Non-Medical Care Managers for clients requiring long-term assistance.
• Call clients to determine connection to care, schedule medical appointments, and ensure attendance.
• Assist clients with scheduling medical transportation to and from appointments.
• Participate in department-wide projects supporting AHF’s mission of client engagement and retention.
• Attend staff meetings and other interdisciplinary meetings related to clients.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or general education degree (GED) required.
• Knowledge of HIV treatment and care guidelines.
• Bilingual: English/Spanish.
• Passionate advocate for AHF’s initiatives, with a commitment to AHF’s Core Values and Mission.
• Ability to adapt in a dynamic environment and work collaboratively in a team-oriented structure.