Patient Navigator

Patient Navigator

Location- Dade City/ Zephyrhills

General Description

The Patient Navigator serves as a liaison and advocate between Premier Community HealthCare Group (PCHG) patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes within a complex healthcare system. This role supports patients as they establish and maintain care, particularly during transitions from hospital to outpatient settings, and helps close gaps in care by addressing medical, social, and systemic barriers.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Act as an advocate for patient care needs by identifying opportunities for intervention and addressing gaps in care
• Build therapeutic relationships using motivational interviewing and reflective communication techniques
• Follow up with patients at high risk for complications and coordinate supported self-care with the care team
• Apply strategies to improve health, functional status, and quality of life, including disease and pharmacy management
• Monitor hospitalizations, emergency visits, admissions, and re-admissions and coordinate follow-up with the Patient-Centered Medical Home
• Conduct hospital visits prior to discharge to assist with coordinating post-discharge care
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with referral sources, community partners, and care providers
• Routinely assess patient progress and proactively adjust care plans, providers, or services as needed
• Assess, collect, and document social determinants of health (e.g., housing, food insecurity, transportation, literacy)
• Maintain a strong and active community referral network
• Document patient encounters accurately and efficiently in the EHR
• Complete required reports, work plans, and weekly schedules
• Track hospital follow-up visits and confirm patient needs are met post-visit
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure HIPAA compliance at all times
• Communicate issues that may disrupt patient flow to care team members
• Support community give-back initiatives and advocate for Premier's mission
• Uphold Premier's core values and patient care standards
• Participate in departmental goals and Quality Improvement / Quality Assurance (QI/QA) initiatives
• Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage confidential patient information
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing patient needs
• Knowledge of cultural competency and community resources
• General knowledge of Electronic Health Records (EHR/EMR)
• Proficiency with office equipment, MS Office, and healthcare software systems
• Professional demeanor with a positive, collaborative attitude
• High ethical standards and strong work ethic
• Excellent customer service skills with empathy and compassion
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent grammar, spelling, and interpersonal skills
• Commitment to Premier's mission, vision, and values

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required
• One (1) year of experience in a medical clinic setting required
• Up to three (3) years of customer service, patient relations, or clinical experience preferred
• Ability to obtain and maintain Epic certification and annual compliance training
• Ability to obtain and maintain annual skills competencies

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 20 lbs. regularly and 30-50 lbs. occasionally
• Ability to sit for extended periods
• Ability to travel across Pasco and Hernando counties for events, on-site support, and community relations
• Direct exposure to computer screens
• Possible exposure to contagious or infectious diseases

Background Screening Requirement:

This position requires a Level 2 background screening through the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse.

Applicants may review information regarding the background screening process, disqualifying offenses, and applicant rights by visiting the AHCA Background Screening Education and Awareness webpage:

https://info.flclearinghouse.com