Refugee Family Health Case Worker

Position Summary

Help JFCS respond with compassion and innovation to the health needs of refugees from around the world who are looking to start a stable life in Pittsburgh.

The Refugee Family Health Case Worker is at the front line of refugee resettlement, ensuring refugees access to medical care through the provision of pre-migration and post-migration activities. The Refugee Family Health Caseworker is a key staff person in the resettlement team. This position works in coordination with caseworkers, service providers, and government agencies to help refugees navigate the healthcare system and access resources. The Refugee Family Health Case Worker provides cultural orientation sessions that allow refugees to access medical care independently. This position is supervised and supported by the Reception and Placement Supervisor.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree (preferred) in social service, education, or related field; two years of experience preferably in refugee or immigrant social services; excellent English (spoken and written); organizational and communication skills as well as the ability to work under strict deadlines; ability to work as part of a team with Case Workers, employment specialists, interpreters, and others; sensitive to cultural differences of clients and staff from diverse backgrounds; functional vehicle required; able to work flexible hours.

 Expectations of this position

• Upon initial referral of case, and upon notification of travel, coordinate and document all activities connected to setting up benefits and medical appointments.
• Ensure that refugees have access to health screenings, follow-up care, and appropriate health education.
• Provide culturally and linguistically appropriate health orientation and education for all newly arrived refugees.
• Assist with appointments at medical offices and benefits with a special focus on fostering independence and creating plans for families to handle such appointments on their own.
• Fill out all appropriate applications (such as welfare, food stamps, social security, SSI, energy assistance programs, etc.) as required.
• Work closely with refugee Case Workers to ensure refugees are provided with core services.
• Serve as point person in the event of medical emergency and/or urgent needs in the early resettlement period, ensuring client needs are promptly addressed and resolved.
• Create and maintain resettlement files; coordinates file reviews to ensure that all documents and case notes are in file per funding guidelines.
• Maintain accurate written and electronic records in accordance with funding and agency requirements.
• Ensure compliance and timely documentation with U.S. Refugee Program requirements through coordination with refugee department staff.
• Prepare case notes on all contacts with or on behalf of clients as soon as possible after they happen; ensure, directly with other staff or through the supervisor, that client files are complete.
• Participate in departmental staff and planning meetings.
• Attend refugee resettlement conferences as needed, local, regional and national.
• Participate in staff development and training opportunities provided by JFCS and others.

About JFCS:

Founded in 1937, JFCS was voted one of Pittsburgh’s best places to work for 10 years running. We are committed to helping people of all ages and backgrounds through life’s changes and challenges. We do this by providing comprehensive, innovative and compassionate social service programs for everyone who walks through our door and throughout the Greater Pittsburgh region.