What is a Patient Care Navigator Job?
A Patient Care Navigator is a healthcare professional who helps patients navigate through the complex healthcare system. They provide support and guidance to patients and their families, helping them to access the care and services they need. Patient care navigators work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. They are an essential part of the healthcare team, helping to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
What usually do in this position?
Patient care navigators perform a wide range of tasks depending on the setting they work in. Some of the common tasks they perform include:
- Assisting patients with scheduling appointments with healthcare providers
- Providing information about healthcare services and resources
- Coordinating care between different healthcare providers
- Advocating for patients and their families
- Helping patients navigate insurance and financial issues related to healthcare
- Providing emotional support to patients and their families
Top 5 Skills for Position
- Communication Skills: Patient care navigators need to be able to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and healthcare providers. They must be able to explain complex medical information in a way that is easy for patients to understand.
- Organization Skills: Patient care navigators must be highly organized and able to manage multiple tasks at once. They must be able to keep track of appointments, medical records, and other important information.
- Compassion: Patient care navigators work with patients who are often going through difficult times. They must be compassionate and empathetic, providing emotional support to patients and their families.
- Critical Thinking: Patient care navigators must be able to think critically and problem-solve. They must be able to anticipate potential issues and develop solutions to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
- Knowledge of Healthcare System: Patient care navigators must have a deep understanding of the healthcare system. They must be familiar with healthcare services and resources in their community, as well as insurance and financial issues related to healthcare.
How to Become a Patient Care Navigator Specialist
To become a patient care navigator, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a healthcare-related field. Some employers may also require a master's degree in healthcare administration or a related field. Patient care navigators may also need to have certification in patient navigation or a related field.
In addition to formal education and certification, patient care navigators need to have a passion for helping others. They must be able to work well under pressure and be able to handle difficult situations. They must also be able to work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Average Salary
The average salary for a patient care navigator varies depending on the location and the employer. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a patient care navigator in the United States is $49,000 per year.
Roles and Types
Patient care navigators work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. They may also work in private practice or for insurance companies. Some patient care navigators specialize in working with specific patient populations, such as cancer patients or patients with chronic illnesses.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
The demand for patient care navigators is growing across the United States. Some of the locations with the most popular jobs for patient care navigators include:
- New York City, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Chicago, IL
- Houston, TX
- Philadelphia, PA
What are the Typical Tools?
Patient care navigators use a variety of tools to help them do their job. Some of the common tools they use include:
- Electronic Medical Records (EMRs): Patient care navigators use EMRs to keep track of patient medical records and appointments.
- Healthcare Directories: Patient care navigators use healthcare directories to find healthcare providers and services in their community.
- Patient Navigation Software: Patient navigation software helps patient care navigators manage patient appointments, track patient progress, and communicate with other healthcare providers.
In Conclusion
Patient care navigators play a critical role in the healthcare system. They help patients navigate through the complex healthcare system, providing support and guidance every step of the way. Patient care navigators must have strong communication and organization skills, as well as a deep understanding of the healthcare system. They must also be compassionate and empathetic, providing emotional support to patients and their families. If you have a passion for helping others and want to make a difference in the healthcare industry, a career as a patient care navigator may be the perfect fit for you.