Community Advocate

Shibogama First Nation Council

Community Advocate (Lead)

Job Description

 

Position Summary

The intent of the Community Advocate is to provide a fail-safe process for clients who may be vulnerable and/or experiencing challenges accessing Medical Treatment through the local Nursing Station and Physician Services processes.

 

This position is one of strict confidentiality that protects the rights of patients and projects an assertive approach to challenge positions of perceived authority/power.

 

The Community Advocate reports to: Community Health Director, Shibogama Health Director

 

Primary Responsibilities

Language and translation support for community members.
Go out into communities (go to the people) to see how community services are delivered and create an environment where they are comfortable asking questions.
(Lead) Recruit Patient Advocates in other Shibogama communities
Build relationships upon trust and mutual respect.
Help resolve concerns about health care experiences
·         Early resolution to meet the need of urgent situations, including second opinions, and,

·         medium to longer term resolutions to resolve systemic barriers to access service.

·         Facilitate respectful, comprehensive, and appropriate resolutions between patients/caregivers.

·         Participate in community engagement initiatives and work with key stakeholders to build awareness of the service.

·         Review and work with complainants and health care providers to resolve complaints. The initial review includes speaking to both the complainant and the health sector organization, as well as document review, including correspondence, patient files or policies.

·         Make recommendations to the health sector organization, such as updates to policies and procedures or training for staff.

·         Complaints may be escalated to an investigation if they are particularly challenging, and the parties involved cannot find a resolution.

·         Communicating with doctors, nurses, therapists, and other providers on a patient’s behalf

·         Explaining things to patients, ranging from medical tests to information on a diagnosis

·         Helping patients navigate their treatment and care options

·         Keeping notes of what happens during medical visits

·         Ensuring a patient’s needs and wishes are met when they can’t speak for themselves

·         Identifying areas where more or better care is needed

·         Supporting patients’ rights, follow up with patients and family.

 

Other Related Duties

Advocate and stand for the Tribal Council and Member Communities.

Provides guidance to staff involved in department services and programs.

Organize projects aimed at improving health systems through healthcare innovation, collaborative approaches, and Interdisciplinary Teams.

Exercise professional judgment and initiative while undertaking all responsibilities and developing relationships.

Deployment to support Crisis Response activities as required.

 

Essential Qualifications (Need to Have)

Must live in the First Nation community where the position is held

Experience in First Nations social, health and wellness programs or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Knowledge and understanding of the Social Determinants of Health in First Nation remote and isolated communities.

Good working knowledge in computer applications including Microsoft Office.

Excellent organizational skills, professionalism, and time management skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Strong interpersonal skills with co-workers, communities, and partners.

Ability to work independently and take initiative.  Ability to work as a Team,

Ability to communicate effectively in one of the dialects of the Treaty 5 and/or 9 Territories.

 

Asset Qualifications (Nice to Have)

Degree or Diploma in a Health or Social Program.

Persons of First Nations ancestry will be given preference (OHRC, Part II, Special Employment)

Driver License

 

Conditions of Employment

Willingness to travel to Urban and Remote and Isolated Communities.

Ability to work overtime on an occasional basis.

Willing to participate in ongoing learning initiatives.