Patient and Community Navigator at Community Health Center of Fort Dodge, Inc – Spencer, Iowa

Job Title: Patient and Community Navigator
Reports To: Office Manager and Outreach Supervisor
FLSA Status: Exempt
Job Type: Full-Time

The Patient and Community Navigator is responsible for assisting patients in accessing healthcare services, insurance coverage, and community resources. This role supports individuals by guiding them through insurance applications, sliding scale applications, and connecting them with community resources to address overall patient needs. Additionally, the Navigator will engage in marketing and community outreach to promote awareness of the FQHC’s medical, dental, and behavioral health services.

• Assist patients with insurance enrollment, including Medicaid, Medicare, ACA Marketplace, and other public assistance programs.
• Guide patients through the sliding fee scale application process to ensure affordability of care.
• Provide direct support in accessing healthcare services, scheduling appointments, and following up on referrals.

• Identify and assess patients' social needs, including food security, housing, transportation, employment, and childcare.
• Provide referrals to local and state social service agencies and community programs.
• Collaborate with internal care teams and external partners to address patient needs.
• Advocate for patients in obtaining necessary resources and overcoming barriers to care.

• Develop and maintain relationships with community organizations, schools, businesses, and faith-based groups to increase awareness of the FQHC’s services.
• Represent the health center at community events, health fairs, and networking opportunities.
• Assist with the creation and distribution of educational materials and marketing campaigns to promote services.
• Utilize social media and other outreach methods to engage with the community.
• Serve as the local point person for CHC events
• Coordinate local fundraising efforts to support health center initiatives including building partnerships with local donors and sponsors.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in social work, public health, healthcare administration, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience considered.
• Experience: Prior experience in patient navigation, case management, social work, or healthcare access preferred. Experience in an FQHC or community health setting is a plus.
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong knowledge of health insurance programs, including Medicaid and Marketplace plans.
  • Familiarity with social service programs and community resources.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with diverse populations.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic health record (EHR) systems.
  • Ability to fundraise and speak with community members in regards to raising funds for capital campaigns or other fundraising events.
  • Knowledge of social media best practices for community engagement, content creation and marketing outreach.
  • Strong written communication skills, with the ability to create clear, concise, and engaging materials for diverse audiences.
  • Bilingual skills (Spanish or other languages relevant to the community) preferred.

• Primarily office-based with frequent community outreach and event participation.
• May require local travel to community organizations.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds for event materials.

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement plan options
• Professional development opportunities