The Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) is the largest nongovernmental, nonprofit funder of lupus research worldwide. The organization aims to transform treatment by funding the most innovative lupus research; fostering diverse scientific talent; stimulating research collaborations; and driving discovery towards better diagnostics, improved treatments, and ultimately a cure for lupus. To date, the LRA has funded over $220 million in support of lupus research and discoveries that have fundamentally improved quality of life for those suffering with this disease.
Position Summary
The Patient Support Coordinator is responsible for guiding study participants and prospective participants through the complexities of the LRA-sponsored research studies, primarily the Lupus Landmark Study of the Lupus Nexus. This role also provides support by connecting individuals to available educational resources, assisting participants with digital services and managing participant stipends.
Responsibilities
- Manage patient recruitment and retention activities.
- Contribute to the development and execution of patient recruitment and retention strategies.
- In concert with the LT’s Patient Engagement (LTPE) team, assist in the administration and oversight of the Lupus Nexus Patient Advisory Group. Foster a safe environment that enables transparent communications and facilitate group discussions on potentially personally sensitive topics.
- Work with LTPE team and program members (e.g. Patient Advocates for Lupus Studies (PALS) Program) as needed to execute on the activities.
- Aid study participants throughout the research study process.
- Provide information to patients about Lupus Nexus research studies and facilitate enrolling participants. Assist in answering questions from study participants and prospective participants about LRA-sponsored studies.
- Connect participants to available services and educational materials, such as primary care providers, specialists, and community health resources via in-house mechanisms and other digital methods.
- Assist study participants with understanding and completion of patient reported outcomes and other research surveys.
- Manage the study participant stipend process, including liaising with appropriate vendor(s), site financial groups and participants to ensure appropriate funds are disbursed.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in science or a healthcare-related field.
- At least two years of experience in a healthcare setting and/or research trials; experience in rheumatology and/or autoimmune diseases (especially lupus) preferred.
- Working knowledge of GCP/ICH/CLIA guidelines and Human Subjects Protection regulations (certifications preferred).
- Excellent listening and communication skills; ability to communicate research topics in layman terms.
- Willingness and ability to support a diverse population of individuals and maintain patient confidentiality; empathetic attitude, with an ability to offer emotional support.
- Able to work independently and as part of a team.
- Comfortable working in a performance-based environment where we hold each other accountable for results which further our important mission.
- Facilitation experience and/or discussion guide development a plus
- Familiarity with Community-Based Participatory Research and/or a Racial Equity lens preferred, but are not required
- Ability to travel 5-10%.
LRA's core values include working toward health equity for all. As a reflection of our commitment to these values, we cover 100% of the cost of our employee's health, dental, and vision insurance from day one! Other benefits include a generous mix of paid time off, a flexible work environment, technology and internet stipend, and more.
The Lupus Research Alliance, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to equal opportunity for all regardless of race, ethnicity, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/orientation/preference, class or socioeconomic status, marital status, age, ability, or Veteran status.