Prevention and Linkage Specialist

Company: SSTAR
Location: Fall River
Posted on: May 3, 2021

Job Description:

Job DescriptionGeneral DutiesKnowledge of the principles of public health practice including prevention and transmission of HIV, Hepatitis C (HCV), other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), latent TB, and harm reduction for People Who Inject Drugs (PWID). Capacity to analyze and data, draw conclusions, and make appropriate recommendations. Ability to communicate effectively, maintain accurate records, assemble information in accordance with established protocols, deal effectively with others, and establish and maintain harmonious working relationships. Ability to establish rapport and deal effectively with persons from different race/ethnic, cultural, and/or socio-economic backgrounds and lifestyles (including different sexual practices, competence working with persons of color, persons who inject drugs, and the LGBTQ community).Specific ResponsibilitiesProvide testing and counseling services to individuals who feel they are at significant risk for HIV/AIDS, HCV, other STIs, and interview the client to determine their level of knowledge, attitudes, and behavior regarding HIV infection, Hepatitis C, other STIs, and harm reduction.Collect blood samples from patients and follow universal precautions.Provide phone counseling to persons having HIV/viral hepatitis/STD concerns and deliver results.Assess potential barriers to care and work with clients to reduce obstacles resulting from lack of transportation, mental illness, substance use, etc.Develop appropriate client referrals internally and externally to the organization.Link clients to medical care and treatment.Provide short-term health navigation services to appropriate clients.Coordinate syringe exchange services.Collect data on program activities and enter data timely and accurately into data systems.Prepare information for HIV/HCV/STI or harm reduction education and present information to diverse groups.Conduct outreach in community settings and share program information with other organizations.Attend relevant trainings and participate in regional meetings as assigned.Stay informed about current HIV/HCV/STI trends, developments, as well as state-of-the-art prevention efforts.Other duties as required.Experience and SkillsQualificationsHigh School graduate with two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional or para-professional experience in the field of health care, medical care, or public health education in a recognized hospital, medical facility or agency.Certified or willing to be trained as a phlebotomist.Organizational skills.Experience with public speaking or giving presentations preferred.Must be open to working with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures and lifestyles in a non-judgmental manner. Sensitivity to HIV issues and people with disabilities required.Bi-lingual in Portuguese or Spanish preferred.At least two years continuous sobriety is required for people in recovery from drugs or alcoholJob BenefitsWe offer a great benefit package including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Generous Personal/Vacation/Sick accrual system, Life Insurance, 403B Retirement Plan, Pet Insurance discount and AFLAC plans.

Keywords: SSTAR, Fall River , Prevention and Linkage Specialist, Other , Fall River, Massachusetts