ER Substance Use Navigator — Rapid Care & Linkage

Ochsner Health; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Substance Use Navigator (SUN) at Ochsner Health in New Orleans provides front-line support in the Emergency Department for patients with substance use disorders. The role focuses on compassionate linkage to treatment, harm reduction, and community resources to reduce repeat ED visits.

This position may require variable shifts, including overnights, weekends, and holidays. Strong communication, trauma-informed care, and experience in behavioral health are highly valued to help patients

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• 1 year healthcare, behavioral health, social services, community outreach, or related experience.
• Preferred: lived experience with substance use and sustained recovery.
• Familiarity with medication-assisted treatment referral pathways.
• Experience with populations experiencing homelessness or social needs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct bedside engagement of ED patients with substance use concerns using trauma-informed, person-centered approaches.
• Establish rapport and build trust with patients in crisis or ambivalent about treatment.
• Perform SBIRT activities and educate patients on SUD and harm reduction options.
• Facilitate real-time referrals and warm handoffs to treatment programs and MAT providers.
• Coordinate with ED clinicians, social workers, and behavioral health teams to support care plans.
• Document all interactions and referrals in the EHR.
• Assist with follow-up outreach to support continuity of care post-discharge.
• Participate in team meetings and program improvement efforts.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Cultural competence

Motivational interviewing

Patient engagement

Interpersonal communication

Team collaboration

Documentation accuracy

Electronic Health Record (EHR) use

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Associate's Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

The Substance Use Navigator (SUN) at Ochsner Health in New Orleans provides front-line support in the Emergency Department for patients with substance use disorders. The role focuses on compassionate linkage to treatment, harm reduction, and community resources to reduce repeat ED visits.

This position may require variable shifts, including overnights, weekends, and holidays. Strong communication, trauma-informed care, and experience in behavioral health are highly valued to help patients