Job Description

Conducts community outreach and provides education to the public on health issues like chronic disease prevention and management, immunizations, and STI/HIV prevention. Works with high-risk populations in areas with low vaccination rates to address vaccine hesitancy, target populations will include individuals from various socio-economic and cultural backgrounds and areas identified as high socio-economic needs. Establishes and maintains relationships with various agencies including health care providers, community leaders, schools, and worksites to facilitate on-going education and outreach efforts. Develops and distributes promotional and educational materials and resources.
1. Conducts community outreach and provides education to the public on health initiatives such as chronic disease prevention and management, immunizations, and STI/HIV prevention. Provides basic health screenings (e.g., blood pressure, blood sugar). May administer adult and childhood immunizations.

2. Works with healthcare provider partners/emergency departments to identify people with underling conditions/chronic diseases to promote vaccinations, healthy lifestyle changes, and risk management.

3. Facilitates care coordination by providing linkage to comprehensive care services, supportive community resources and local programs to improve health status. Develops culturally sensitive educational materials and presentations on health topics relevant to the community.

4. Assists the establishment of programs aimed at improving vaccine acceptance and reducing vaccine hesitancy particularly in communities with high risk for chronic diseases or other health conditions.

5. Works with community partners to identify and gather information on available resources for chronic disease self-management and related social services, such as food assistance, transportation, pest management, home weatherization, and other.

6. Conducts or participates in surveys and data collection activities designed to assess chronic health status and impacts of high STI/HIV rates in identified communities.

7. Supports DCHHS medical providers and the management team by creating community outreach programs and activities. Assists in preparation of reports.

8. Performs other duties as assigned. Education, Experience and Training:
Graduation from an accredited high school/GED program. Four (4) years health/social services experience or current certification as Community Health Worker (CHW) by the State of Texas. Clinical Medical Assistant certification required to administer vaccines. Experience with multicultural background preferred.

Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Skilled in the use of standard software applications. Must be self-directed and fully knowledgeable in order to assess a situation, make appropriate judgments based on facts, and utilize knowledge of program regulations and available resources to address the needs of identified communities. Must be proficient in medical terminology and able to explain complicated medical concepts in a simple and unambiguous manner to individuals and families. Ability to establish close relationships and trust with patients, families and communities. Must exhibit excellent communication skills and positive working relationships with healthcare providers and community partners. Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments and the general public. Must possess a valid Texas Driver’s License, with a good driving record and reliable transportation.

Physical/Environmental Requirements:
May require prolonged sitting, standing, walking and ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. unassisted.