Position: Community Health Worker / Insurance Navigator

Department: Social Services

Shift: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.   

Status: Full-time, hourly

Position Purpose: 

The Community Health Worker (CHW) will play a critical role in supporting the development and implementation of the Hospital Transformation Plan under the Rural Hospital Transformation Fund by serving as a trusted liaison between the hospital, patients, and the community to identify needs, reduce barriers to care, and inform strategic initiatives. Their primary role is to improve health outcomes by connecting people to resources, providing education, and supporting individuals in navigating the health system.

Duties include:

• Conduct community outreach, surveys, and interviews.
• Identify gaps in access, transportation, behavioral health, etc.
• Document trends and report findings to leadership teams.
• Support Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNAs).
• Help patients navigate resources for transportation, medication assistance and other social determinants of health (SDOH) resources.
• Help individuals and families understand, apply for, and maintain health insurance coverage.
• Guide clients through private insurance plans, Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace options, ensuring people receive the coverage they qualify for.

Education: High school diploma required.  Associate or bachelor’s degree in social work or nursing preferred.

Certifications: The following certifications would be completed within the first year of employment:  Certification as a Navigator or Assister under ACA guidelines and Community Health Worker certification

Proficiencies: Enrollment platforms, electronic health records and communication tools preferred.  Computer skills in a Windows environment.

Prior Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: 

• Familiarity with community resources such as clinics, social programs, and financial assistance services.
• Problem‑solving abilities to help clients overcome barriers to coverage.
• Cultural competence and sensitivity to client backgrounds and needs.
• Ability to build trust and work effectively with diverse populations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to explain complex information simply.
• Empathy and patience skills.
• Customer service experience, especially with diverse or vulnerable populations.
• Ability to work independently and manage a caseload effectively.
• Attention to detail for completing applications and managing documentation.
• Previous experience in community work, social services, or health care (preferred)
• Experience in healthcare or social services settings (preferred).
• Computer proficiency with enrollment platforms, electronic records, and communication tools (preferred).
• Knowledge of health insurance systems including Marketplace plans, Medicaid, and Medicare (preferred).

Wage Rate Range: $23.00/HR - $30.25/HR, based on experience.

Benefits: