Job Summary: The Patient Navigator RN-Sickle Cell is an experienced nurse with a solid body of knowledge related to the specialty practice of sickle cell disease management, and treatment. Screens and triages incoming correspondence, and new patient requests. Provides information to referring physicians and patients regarding the referral and evaluation process for acceptance into the Sickle Cell Program. Interviews patients, families, and referral sources to obtain pertinent past and current information and medical records. Evaluates program candidates based on established admission criteria and coordinates access to care. Provides patients and families in-depth education on pertinent aspects of care including referral process, diagnostic studies, treatment and procedures, medication management, life-style changes, importance of commitment and compliance with the individualized plan of care. Assesses patient’s healthcare benefit coverage and secures financial authorization for initial evaluation and ongoing aspects of care, treatment and procedures. Collaborates with Patient Business Office to remove payor authorization barriers and explore solutions. Maintains open communication with referring physicians and provides progress reports and updates as requested. Coordinates with the Sickle Cell Center leadership to achieve and maintain a high level of clinical care to patients served. Functions as a clinical resource for patients, families, clinics, hospital in-patient units, and support services, mentors’ staff and provides on the spot education about sickle cell disease and management as needed. Utilizes discretion and independent judgement to apply care coordination methodologies and practices for a seamless multidisciplinary approach to whole-person care across the continuum. Applies theoretical concepts to clinical practice and exhibits self-motivation to continually expand knowledge base and clinical skills with a focus in sickle cell disease. Participates in Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved research that improves outcomes and quality of life for patients with sickle cell disease. Participates in developing, implementing, and maintaining policies, procedures, protocols clinical pathways, and clinical practice standards of care that are parallel with best practices for all aspects of care related to sickle cell disease management. Works collaboratively with the director and the medical director to explore and secure grants and fundings. Participate in local and national activities and initiatives to provide educational experiences for healthcare providers, patients and the community. Develops networks and alliances that promote the sickle cell program while augmenting visibility and enhancing the sickle cell service image. Demonstrates behaviors which support excellence in customer satisfaction, patient safety and professionalism. Demonstrates expertise in service recovery methodologies and capably resolves issues from dissatisfied customers. Contribute to a work environment of caring and cooperation among a culturally diverse workforce and patient population. Performs other duties as needed.

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s Degree in nursing required. Master’s degree in Nursing preferred. Minimum of three years medical/surgical or hematology nursing required. Minimum one year of prior experience as service line Navigator preferred. One year experience in an outpatient clinic preferred. 

Knowledge and Skills: Substantial knowledge of sickle cell disease management and treatment required, state and federal healthcare regulations and accreditation, finance, performance improvement, quality, patient safety, evidenced-based clinical practice standards, medical staff structure, legal aspects of care, and nursing scope of practice required. Ability to apply theoretical concepts to clinical practice Knowledge and application of adult learning principles, management and utilize problem-solving methodologies in a proactive and creative manner. Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of staff. Able to read; write and speak with professional quality; use computer and software programs necessary to the position (e.g., Word, Excel, Power Point, Access); operate/troubleshoot basic office equipment required for the position. Able to relate and communicate positively, effectively, and professionally with others; provide leadership; be assertive and consistent in enforcing policies ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, rules and laws; think critically; use sound judgment based on factual information and clinical knowledge; work calmly and respond courteously when under pressure; lead, supervise, teach, and collaborate; accept direction. Able to communicate effectively in English in person, in writing, and on the telephone; think critically; work independently; perform basic math and statistical functions; manage multiple assignments; compose written material; work well under pressure; problem solve; organize and prioritize workload; recall information with accuracy; pay close attention to detail. Able to distinguish colors as necessary; hear sufficiently for general conversation in person and on the telephone and identify and distinguish various sounds associated with the workplace; see adequately to read computer screens, and written documents necessary to the position.

Licensures and Certifications: Active California Registered Nursing (RN) license required. Basic Life Support (BLS)Certification issued by the American Heart Association required.