Community Health Worker - People Matters

Position: Community Health Worker

Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) is seeking to hire a Community Health Worker to help connect designated populations to mental, social and health resources in Barry and Eaton counties. This position will assist community members to overcome substance abuse barriers (opioid, alcohol, etc.) in order to maintain their health and obtain access to social services. This position can be based out of either our Hastings, MI or Charlotte, MI office.

We are the nationally accredited public health service agency for Barry and Eaton counties in Michigan. We protect and improve health through effective policies and programs for individuals, families, businesses, and our community. In this role, you are integral to fulfill our vision of a community where everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and active life.

In the Community Health Worker position, you will have the opportunity to:

• Conduct mental health, substance use, and comprehensive social determinants of health screenings to determine each client’s specific challenges and strengths related to wellness, harm reduction and recovery.
• Buildtrustingrelationshipsandsupportsclientstomakehealthychoices.
• Interviewclientstoidentifyneedsrelatedtopersonalandfamilyadjustments,health,finances,employment,food,clothing,housing,utilities, addiction and recovery, andphysicalandmentalhealth.
• Record medical, psychological and social factors that contribute to client’s situations and submit referrals for evaluations, as needed.
• Utilize an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system to document all client interactions and maintain accurate and confidential records of client interactions, progress, and outcomes.
• Offer information and resources on substance use, harm reduction, recovery strategies and coping mechanisms.
• Work closely with other members of social services and treatment teams, including therapists, social workers, case managers, and healthcare. professionals to ensure a coordinated and holistic approach to client care.
• Determine client’seligibilityfor servicesforfinancialassistance,insurance and programs,in ordertorefer clientstocommunityresourcesandagenciestomeettheidentifiedneeds.
• Communicate(e.g.,in-person,email,telephone,etc.)internallyandexternallywithahighdegreeofcustomer service tounderstandandrespondto inquiriesorshare informationinatimelyfashion.
• Travel to client’s homes, community locations, outreach events and frequently attends off site meetings with clients to evaluate and address social and health resources.

Ideal Candidates will possess:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to travel within the community approximately 50% of the time.
• Basic knowledge to use Microsoft Word, Excel, and database computer systems.
• Ability to interact in a positive manner with clients while building relationships and trust.
• Knowledge of social services and/or public health systems.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact in a positive and professional manner.

BEDHD supports the health and wellbeing of its team by providing health insurance on the first of the month after hire date, 100% employer-paid dental and vision, disability and life insurance, retirement savings, generous paid time off, paid parental leave, and an employee assistance program (EAP). BEDHD is also a Federal Public Loan Forgiveness Program eligible employer.

Barry Eaton District Health Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.