Care Navigator

NHS Jobs; Hitchin; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

NHS Jobs is seeking a Care Navigator to provide welcoming, efficient reception and admin support within a GP practice in Hitchin. You will help direct patients to the right service and maintain records with confidentiality and GDPR compliance. The role emphasizes clear communication and teamwork in a busy environment.

Working hours are Monday to Friday, 1:00pm–6:30pm, with potential for additional hours to cover extended access services.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication skills and patient-centred approach.
• Experience supporting a busy multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to manage appointments and administrative tasks.
• Knowledge of GDPR and confidentiality requirements.

Responsibilities

• Act as first point of contact for patients, carers and visitors.
• Register new patients in accordance with NHS requirements.
• Allocate, book and manage patient appointments.
• Process patient records and data accurately in line with GDPR.

Skills

Excellent communication

Customer service

Team player

Job description

The Care Navigator is a key member of the practice team and acts as the first point of contact for patients, carers and visitors. The post holder will provide a professional, welcoming and efficient reception and administrative service, supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the practice and ensuring patients are appropriately directed to the correct service or clinician. The role requires excellent communication skills, a patient-centred approach and the ability to work effectively as part of a busy multidisciplinary team.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Services

• Act as the first point of contact for patients, carers and visitors, both in person and via telephone
• Register new patients in accordance with practice policies and NHS requirements
• Complete and process triage forms accurately to support appropriate clinical assessment
• Allocate, book and manage patient appointments, ensuring patients are directed to the most appropriate service
• Provide patients with accurate information regarding practice services and access routes

Administrative Duties

• Process paper prescriptions in line with practice procedures and confidentiality requirements
• Maintain and update patient records accurately and in a timely manner
• Ensure all data is handled in accordance with GDPR and patient confidentiality standards
• Support general administrative tasks as required to ensure the efficient operation of the practice

Practice Support

• Open and or close the practice in line with agreed procedures
• Provide cover for alternative working patterns during periods of staff absence
• Support extended access services where required, including working additional hours outside of core practice times
• Work collaboratively with clinical and non clinical colleagues to ensure a high standard of service delivery

General Responsibilities

• Maintain a courteous, calm and professional manner at all times, particularly when dealing with distressed or unwell patients
• Adhere to all practice policies, procedures and NHS guidelines
• Participate in training and team meetings as required
• Contribute to a positive, supportive and inclusive working environment

Working Hours

The role operates the following fixed working pattern: Monday to Friday, 1:00pm 6:30pm Additional hours may be requested to support extended access services outside of core practice hours, subject to service requirements.

Confidentiality

In the course of seeking treatment, patients entrust the practice with sensitive personal information. The Care Navigator must respect patient confidentiality at all times and comply with data protection legislation and practice policies.