Some of the duties of the Patient Care Navigator are:
- Schedule patient appointments, follow-ups, and diagnostic tests.
- Ensure patients complete referrals, imaging, and specialty visits.
- Track and follow up on missed appointments or delayed care.
- Coordinate transportation and interpreter services as needed.
- Reinforce instructions given by clinicians to promote adherence.
- Identify and connect patients with community resources (housing support, food assistance, transportation programs).
- Refer patients to social work, behavioral health, case management, or financial counseling when appropriate
- Help patients articulate their questions and concerns to the care team.
- Ensure patient values and preferences are considered in care decisions.
- Support patients in overcoming barriers to care, such as fear, language, financial constraints, or lack of health literacy.
- Assist with insurance-related tasks (e.g., prior authorizations, coverage verification).
- Refer to billing department or financial counselors when needed.
- Document all patient encounters, care coordination activities, and barriers identified in the electronic medical record (EMR).
- Communicate updates to the care team regarding patient needs or status changes.
- Communicate with physicians, nurses, social workers, and other team members to align care strategies.
- Share insights about patient barriers and help develop solutions.
- Conduct reminder calls for appointments or health screenings.
- Reach out to high-risk or disengaged patients to re-establish care.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education Required - HS Diploma or Equivalence License/Certification/Registration(s) Required - Graduate from an Approved Medical Assistant Program Experience/Skills Required - Previous experience in a medical setting or 2 years relevant work experience preferred
- Excellent communication/ interpersonal skills
- Bilingual preferred
- Knowledge of computer technology preferred. Successful completion of St. Barnabas Hospital orientation.