Substance Use Navigator — ED Care & Warm Handoffs

Ochsner Health; LaPlace (LA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Ochsner Health in Louisiana seeks a Substance Use Navigator to engage ED patients with substance use concerns, perform SBIRT, and coordinate referrals to treatment and recovery services. The SUN will work with ED clinicians and community resources to reduce repeat ED visits and improve outcomes.

Ideal applicants have 1 year in healthcare or behavioral health, with trauma-informed, patient-centered approach and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma/GED required; associate or bachelor in related field preferred.
• Work Experience: healthcare, behavioral health, social services, or related area preferred.
• Certifications: CHW/SBIRT training and peer support credentials preferred (if applicable).

Responsibilities

• Conduct bedside engagement of ED patients using trauma-informed, person-centered approaches.
• Establish rapport and build trust with patients in crisis or ambivalent about treatment.
• Perform SBIRT activities and refer to treatment.
• Educate patients and families on SUD and harm reduction options.
• Facilitate real-time referrals and warm handoffs to treatment programs and MAT providers.
• Coordinate with ED clinicians and behavioral health teams to support care plans.
• Document interactions accurately in the EHR and ensure continuity of care.
• Participate in team meetings and program improvement efforts.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Cultural responsiveness

Interpersonal skills

Motivational interviewing

Substance use knowledge

Community partnerships

Documentation accuracy

EHR proficiency

Professional boundaries

Emotional resilience

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Associate's degree in Social Services/Behavioral Health/Public Health

Bachelor's degree in Social Services/Behavioral Health/Public Health

Job description

Ochsner Health in Louisiana seeks a Substance Use Navigator to engage ED patients with substance use concerns, perform SBIRT, and coordinate referrals to treatment and recovery services. The SUN will work with ED clinicians and community resources to reduce repeat ED visits and improve outcomes.

Ideal applicants have 1 year in healthcare or behavioral health, with trauma-informed, patient-centered approach and strong communication skills.