Emergency Substance Use Navigator

Ochsner Health; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Ochsner Health in New Orleans, LA is seeking a Substance Use Navigator to engage ED patients with SUD using trauma-informed, person-centered approaches. You will perform SBIRT, establish rapport, and coordinate real-time referrals to treatment, MAT providers, and community resources to reduce repeat ED visits.

The role requires strong communication, documentation in the EHR, and the ability to work variable shifts, including overnights and weekends as needed to support ED operations.

Qualifications

• Required - High School Diploma/GED.
• Preferred - Associate's Degree/College Diploma in Social Services, Behavioral Health, Public Health, or related field.
• Preferred - Bachelor's in Social Services, Behavioral Health, Public Health, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Conduct bedside engagement of ED patients with substance use concerns using trauma-informed, person-centered approaches.
• Establish rapport and build trust with patients, including those in crisis or ambivalent about treatment.
• Performs SBIRT activities (Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral to Treatment).
• Educates patients and families on substance use disorder, harm reduction, and treatment options.
• Facilitates referrals and warm handoffs to MAT providers, peer support, recovery services, and community resources.
• Coordinates with ED clinicians, social workers, case managers, and behavioral health teams to support care plans.
• Documents all patient interactions and referrals in the EHR.
• Assists with follow-up outreach to support continuity of care post-discharge.
• Participates in interdisciplinary meetings and program improvement efforts.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Culturally responsive care

Patient-centered care

Motivational interviewing

Interpersonal communication

Documentation in EHR

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Associate's Degree/College Diploma (Social Services, Behavioral Health, Public Health)

Bachelor's degree (Social Services, Behavioral Health, Public Health)

Tools

Electronic Health Records (EHR)

Job description

Ochsner Health in New Orleans, LA is seeking a Substance Use Navigator to engage ED patients with SUD using trauma-informed, person-centered approaches. You will perform SBIRT, establish rapport, and coordinate real-time referrals to treatment, MAT providers, and community resources to reduce repeat ED visits.

The role requires strong communication, documentation in the EHR, and the ability to work variable shifts, including overnights and weekends as needed to support ED operations.