Patient Navigator

Patient Navigator

Shibogama First Nations Council is a progressive organization that serves five First Nation communities; Kasabonika Lake First Nation, Kingfisher Lake First Nation, Wapekeka First Nation, Wawakapewin First Nation and Wunnumin Lake First Nation and its people in various capacities such as governance, education, health, economic development, technical support and other services.

General Description:
The Patient Navigator position is a full-time professional position that will be reviewed on an annual basis. The Patient Navigator will report directly to the Executive Director and will be responsible for managing, planning, developing and implementing the patient liaison services with Sioux Lookout District First Nations clients. The Patient Navigator will be part of the program team working towards fulfilling the vision and mission of Shibogama First Nation Council mandate and its policies, and ensure compliances with the overall program requirements for the Sioux Lookout District. And to liaise, partner and work closely with the other related service providers such as: SLFNHA and First Nations Hostels.

Responsibility:
The Patient Navigator will oversee, coordinate and implement the patient liaison services program. Under the direct supervision of the SFNC Executive Director, the Patient Navigator will carry out the responsibilities for advocating and providing support to the First Nations Clients who are having difficulties and issues with their patient services under the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program.

Duties:
Provide Liaison and advocacy for First Nation organizations, governments, and First Nation Chief and Council
Establish and maintain a positive working relationship with ISC/FNIHB and NIHB Program through meetings and current contact information.
Meet the Tribal Council Health Directors on a regular basis (at least bi-monthly) for feedback and input to continue improving the Patient Navigator program.
Work with Chief & Council and Tribal Councils to establish a First Nation contact to deal with client issues.
Provide regular written updates and program statistics to the Chiefs Committee on Health and Chiefs & Council.
Provide information and update on benefit eligibility criteria, tools and forms.
Develop with the service organization, Tribal Councils, and communities to track NIHB denials, complaints and appeals.
Provide the preparation of the annual work-plans, quarterly and year-end reports.
Provide advocacy and support to all clients in Sioux Lookout District who access medical support services.
Identify problems with access to obtain necessary services and solutions with each client.
Work jointly on issues with NIHB, Tribal Councils, communities, and service providers.
Develop and utilize a SFNC website or dedicated website to provide information and education awareness.
Explain the appeal process and develop templates of appeal letters, consent form for release of information, and acquiring doctors support letters.
Record and file all incidents and denials with supportive documentation.
Training and Networking
Participate in training and orientation sessions with ISC/FNIHB officials.
Maintain a list of contacts with Health Care service provides (e.g. Pharmacy, Dental, Vision, hospital on Special appointments, Physiotherapist).
Participate in the network meetings with Ontario First Nations NIHB Networking Group to ensure issues are identified and addressed in a timely manner.
Promote cultural sensitivity among service providers.
Communications and Report
Provide quarterly reporting on stats.
Update contact information, brochures, and roles of the patient navigator for each First Nation, hospital, hostel, etc.
Prepare presentation, reports, press release (if required), newsletter, update website and radio shows to promote the program.
Translate the promotional and program information to Native Language.

Other Duties
Perform other duties as may be assigned from time-to-time by the Executive Director.

Qualifications:
 Post-Secondary Education in Health or related field.
 Minimum of three (3) years prior work experience with First Nations or organization is essential.
 Working knowledge of federal and provincial policies and services, particularly Health Canada relevant to First Nation health.
 Knowledge of computerized management information systems and literacy.
 Proficient written communication skills and good organizational skills.
 Be self-motivated, innovative and proactive with the ability to multi-task, prioritize tasks, demands and work independently.
 Strong interpersonal skills and ability to advocate and support clients.
 Fluency in Oji-Cree
 Ability to understand medical terminology and a willingness to learn and interpret.
 Possess a valid Driver’s license.

Compensation:
 Salary will be determined based on education and years of experience (Salary Grid).
 Salary will be paid semi-monthly, plus leave and benefits to be negotiated.