Emergency Substance Use Navigator – ED Patient Linkage

Ochsner Health; LaPlace (LA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Ochsner Health in Louisiana seeks a Substance Use Navigator (SUN) to engage ED patients with substance use disorders, linking to treatment, harm reduction, and community resources. The role emphasizes trauma-informed, patient-centered care, and rapid referrals.

Travel to Luling and LaPlace hospitals may be required; SUN collaborates with ED clinicians, social workers, and MAT providers to coordinate care and follow-up.

Qualifications

• 1 year healthcare, behavioral health, social services, community outreach, or related area.
• Preferred lived experience of substance use or sustained recovery (or experience supporting a loved one).
• Experience in Emergency Department, crisis, behavioral health, addiction treatment, or case management.
• Familiarity with medication-assisted treatment (MAT) referral pathways.
• SBIRT training and CHW/peer certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Engage ED patients with substance use concerns using trauma-informed approaches.
• Establish rapport with patients in crisis or ambivalence toward treatment.
• Perform SBIRT activities and facilitate referrals to treatment.
• Educate patients and families on SUD, harm reduction, and options.
• Coordinate real-time referrals and warm handoffs to programs and MAT providers.
• Collaborate with ED clinicians, social workers, and behavioral health teams.
• Document all interactions and referrals accurately in the EHR.
• Support post-discharge follow-up and care coordination.
• Participate in team meetings and program improvement efforts.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Interpersonal communication

Motivational interviewing

Care coordination

Documentation in EHR

Cultural responsiveness

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Associate's Degree/College Diploma Social Services, Behavioral Health, Public Health, or related field

Bachelor's Social Services, Behavioral Health, Public Health, or related field

Job description

Ochsner Health in Louisiana seeks a Substance Use Navigator (SUN) to engage ED patients with substance use disorders, linking to treatment, harm reduction, and community resources. The role emphasizes trauma-informed, patient-centered care, and rapid referrals.

Travel to Luling and LaPlace hospitals may be required; SUN collaborates with ED clinicians, social workers, and MAT providers to coordinate care and follow-up.