Patient Navigator

Together with our millions of supporters, the American Cancer Society (ACS) saves lives and creates a world with less cancer and more birthdays by helping people stay well, helping people get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back.

The Patient Navigator establishes contact with cancer patients and their support system within the hospital setting through approaches agreed upon with the host site to raise awareness and referrals to American Cancer Society information resources, support programs and services, and assist in meeting other cancer-related needs articulated by patients and their support system. The Patient Navigator is responsible for establishing ongoing, mutually beneficial relationships within the host facility, meeting annual patient contact goal, conducting outreach activities to new patients, caregivers, healthcare providers and medical staff. The Patient Navigator implements ongoing evaluation, quality improvement, and appropriate procedures. The Patient Navigator helps to enhance and maintain the Cancer Resource Connection database.

* Makes cancer patients and families/support system aware of and referrals to ACS information resources, support programs and services. * Provides additional information and referral about community resources and host site resources for needs articulated by cancer patients and their families who visit the ACS Patient Navigator Program. * Understands and evaluates the breadth and accessibility of community resources. * Identify resources and services available in the area, particularly within the host organization and communicate them appropriately to constituents and to other caregivers. * Identify gaps in resources offered and work within the community to bridge those gaps. * Develops action plan with patients/caregivers to meet their needs. * Gathers personal health information from patients and their support system to support the mission of ACS. * Speaks with constituents in private to assess their needs, either immediately, or through an appointment system, and helps provide access to the services and support they require. * Conducts follow up calls to patients and families to ensure that resources met their needs and to identify additional needs. * Provides brief emotional support for overwhelmed constituents. * Maintains accurate, confidential records, documenting services provided and unmet needs. * Maintains patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations. * Contributes accurate, up-to-date information to Cancer Resource Connection. * Act as a representative of the American Cancer Society within the entire community and especially within the host community. * Communicates regularly with the supervisor; attends regularly scheduled ACS staff meetings. * Works cooperatively as a part of team with the ACS regional, division and national office in Health Systems and Mission Delivery. * Attends at least one Relay for Life event and one Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event to support Cancer Resource Network and Survivorship activities at the event. * Other duties, including travel, as assigned.

* Bachelor’s degree in health-related field preferred and/or 2 years equivalent experience will be considered. * Must have thorough knowledge of health care systems, medical terminology. * Knowledge about the breadth and accessibility of community resources. * Experience working in medical settings and interacting collaboratively with medical teams. * Experience working with oncology patients a plus. * Working knowledge of HIPAA regulations required * Strong communication, interpersonal and organizational skills. * Compassionate, articulate and patient. * Computer proficiency. * Strong problem-solving, relationship-building, data collection skills and advocacy. * Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision. * Responsible for working within an established budget. * 1 - 3 Years experience