Community Health Care Worker

VNS Health; New York (NY); On-site; Full time

Job summary

A leading nonprofit health care organization is seeking individuals for member advocacy roles. Responsibilities include supporting clients in navigating healthcare, conducting outreach, and conducting motivational interviews. Ideal candidates require a high school diploma and experience in community health, with bilingual skills being an asset. This opportunity offers growth potential and competitive benefits.

Benefits

Generous paid time off (PTO), starting at 20 days, plus 9 holidays

Health insurance including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability

Employer-matched 401k retirement plan

Tuition reimbursement for qualifying degrees

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• Experience with underserved communities preferred.
• Minimum one year in care management or social services preferred.
• Bilingual skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with navigating the health system and making referrals.
• Coach members using motivational interviewing.
• Maintain detailed, accurate case notes.

Skills

Empathetic communication

Motivational interviewing

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate's Degree in human services or related field

Job description

Overview

Provides education, member advocacy, and accompaniment to medical care appointments as determined by team leaders. Participates in team meetings to discuss client evaluations and feedback. Works with clients to determine eligibility for social service programs and identify barriers to medical care and follow-up. Alerts team members when additional social and community services are needed and ensures access and linkage to edu and health plan services. Contributes to client engagement in medical care as prescribed by their medical team. Works under close supervision.

What We Provide

• Referral bonus opportunities
• Generous paid time off (PTO), starting at 20 days, plus 9 holidays
• Health insurance for you and your loved ones, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability
• Employer-matched 401k retirement plan
• Personal and financial wellness programs
• Pre-tax FSAs for healthcare, dependent care, and transit
• Tuition reimbursement for qualifying degrees
• Opportunities for professional growth, career advancement, and CEU credits

What You Will Do

• Review rosters with supervisor to identify members needing follow-up
• Notify and assist with immediate needs and risk factors, making referrals as needed
• Coach members using motivational interviewing to support participation in care plans, including home visits and appointment accompaniment
• Conduct outreach via phone and face-to-face for follow-up on self-care, medication, visits, and test results
• Reinforce education from medical providers about managing chronic conditions and risks of poor follow-up
• Collaborate with outreach team to discuss client progress and barriers, designing follow-up strategies
• Assist with navigating the health system, including advocacy and accompaniment
• Maintain detailed, accurate case notes and utilize in-house platforms for updates
• Engage hard-to-reach or lost members for screenings and appointments
• Support clients in obtaining and attending medical appointments, including accompaniment
• Use motivational interviewing to identify systemic and personal barriers
• Guide clients on self-management and health literacy
• Participate in case reviews and conferences with care providers

Qualifications

Licenses and Certifications: Peer navigation or CHOW training preferred

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate's Degree in human services or related field preferred

Work Experience: Minimum one year in care management, community health, social services, or medical practice preferred. Experience with underserved communities, lived experience, and working with individuals with substance use and mental health issues are preferred. Basic computer skills required. Bilingual skills preferred based on operational needs. Empathetic, non-judgmental communication skills required.

Pay Range

USD $17.49 - USD $21.80 / Hr.

About Us

VNS Health is a leading nonprofit home and community-based health care organization with over 130 years of experience. We serve more than 43,000 neighbors with compassionate care, expertise, and 24/7 resources, driven by data analytics. We offer a full range of health care services, solutions, and health plans to meet diverse community needs in New York and beyond.