Find your calling at Mercy!
A community health worker is a front-line public health worker who is a trusted member of and/or has an unusually close understanding of the community served. This trusting relationship enables the worker to serve as a liaison/link between health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards.
Position Details:
Community Health Worker
Position Summary
The Community Health Worker (CHW) serves as a vital link between patients, healthcare providers, and community resources. In this role, you will work closely with uninsured, underinsured, and high-risk patients to help them navigate the healthcare system, access financial and social support services, and improve overall health outcomes. The ideal candidate is compassionate, resourceful, and passionate about serving vulnerable populations.
Key Responsibilities
Patient Navigation & Advocacy
- Serve as a health navigator for uninsured and underinsured patients.
- Provide one-on-one support to high-risk patients to help overcome barriers to care.
- Assist patients with applications for Medicaid, financial assistance programs, and medication assistance programs.
- Collaborate with Eligibility Services teams to gather necessary documentation and streamline application processes.
- Connect patients with primary care providers and medical homes as appropriate.
- Ensure patients understand provider instructions and are able to attend scheduled appointments.
Address Social Determinants of Health
- Screen patients for social needs, including food insecurity, transportation challenges, housing instability, and financial strain.
- Connect patients with community resources through established referral processes and provide follow-up support as needed.
- Develop and maintain relationships with local community organizations and resource partners to enhance patient support services.
Care Coordination & Follow-Up
- Manage an assigned caseload of patients with varying levels of acuity.
- Conduct follow-up outreach by phone and in person to support positive patient outcomes and ongoing engagement in care.
- Advocate for patients and help coordinate services that address both healthcare and social needs.
Documentation & Reporting
- Accurately document patient encounters, interventions, and referrals within the electronic medical record.
- Track patient interactions and maintain records in accordance with organizational and regulatory requirements.
- Assist with reporting and data collection as directed.
Professional Development
- Participate in ongoing training, education, and professional development opportunities.
- Pursue Community Health Worker certification and continuing education opportunities when available.
- Stay informed about community resources, healthcare programs, and best practices in patient engagement.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
- High School Diploma or equivalent
Experience
- One (1) year of experience in healthcare, social services, community outreach, or a related field
Licensure/Certification
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
- Compassion for underserved and vulnerable populations
- Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
Preferred Qualifications
Additional Qualifications
- Multilingual skills relevant to the community served
- Experience connecting patients with community-based resources and support programs
Why Join Us?
Make a meaningful impact by helping individuals overcome barriers to healthcare, connect with essential resources, and improve their overall well-being. As a Community Health Worker, you'll play a critical role in supporting healthier communities and creating positive patient experiences every day.
Why Mercy?
From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.
Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.