HIV Community Health Worker

JOB CODE: 2303

PAY GRADE: 1160

SALARY RANGE: $32,215 - $54,842

LOCATION OF WORK
Department of Human Development and Services

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the direction of the Program Administrator - HIV/AIDS, provides personal assistance to individuals newly diagnosed with HIV, as well as to those who have been living with HIV but facing challenges in accessing or maintaining medical care. This classification works closely with communities of marginalized and vulnerable populations at risk of acquiring HIV. Work involves providing trust-based information and education, helping clients to cope with and overcome fear, walking clients through the complex healthcare system, and helping them to strategize managing personal health needs. Performs other work as requested.

ESSENTIAL WORK TASKS
Utilizes referrals and organizational information, such as missed appointments, to identify previously diagnosed HIV-positive individuals not receiving medical care; conducts outreach activities at various community organizations and other venues. Educates clients on living with HIV, preventing further transmission, benefits and challenges of HIV care and treatment, and availability and accessibility to services and other resources. Provides personalized assistance to help clients enroll or re-engage in medical care. Supports clients throughout the early phases of care, encouraging full participation in HIV education, treatment, and self-advocacy. Assists clients in developing confidence and a willingness to participate in HIV treatment. Works with support staff to assist clients in identifying services to address other aspects affecting one's health, such as mental health and substance abuse treatment, domestic violence services, housing programs, and education and employment services. Maintains accurate records of outreach activities, client interactions, and referrals, while ensuring confidentiality and adherence to privacy standards. Participates in program evaluations by collecting and reporting data regarding the number of clients reached, tests facilitated, and services provided. Assists in tracking clients' progress through the HIV Care Continuum, from diagnosis to retention and viral suppression. Keeps the Program Administrator-HIV/AIDS informed of all problems, challenges, and conflicts related to the program. Conducts outreach and support activities outside of traditional work hours on a regular basis, such as evenings and weekends.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and HIV medical care services within East Baton Rouge Parish and surrounding parishes. Knowledge of regional community resources and services. Knowledge of at-risk factors for poorer health, such as homelessness, incarceration, domestic violence, and/or substance abuse. Skill in needs assessment related to treatment education, risk reduction, and prevention. Skill in conducting interviews with sensitivity and empathy that demonstrate respect to clients' dignity and diversity. Skill in maintaining client records and information accurately, timely, and confidentially. Skill in the operation of modern office equipment and in the use of standard computer applications. Ability to demonstrate strong communication and resourcefulness when assisting clients. Ability to work efficiently and independently in a busy environment, as well as in partnership with staff and stakeholders; ability to engage staff and clients in a supportive and empowering way. Ability to manage conflict and use good judgment and decisiveness. Ability to expand interest and knowledge through additional training. Ability to apply good work habits such as punctuality, reliability, preciseness, and dependability in order to effectively complete assigned tasks and contribute to the smooth operation of the department and division. Ability to expand interest and knowledge through additional training.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS