Temporary Health Specialist

BASIC FUNCTION: Coordinate the health program for a group of Head Start classrooms and Family Child Care homes in cooperation with other Head Start components by implementing the Head Start Performance Standards, DEEC and NAEYC regulations, as well as meeting the goals and objectives of the agency.

This is a Temporary Role

DUTIES

• Provide a comprehensive health services program which includes a broad range of medical, dental, mental health and nutrition direct and supportive services to preschool children, including children in need of special services, to assist with the child’s physical, emotional, cognitive and social development towards the overall goal of social competence.
• Promote preventive physical, oral and mental health services and early intervention through training, referral to community resources and individual contacts.
• Help the child’s family develop the necessary skills and insight to link the family to on-going health care systems, ensuring the child continues to receive comprehensive health care after leaving the Head Start program.
• Collaborate, cooperate and communicate with staff at all levels to meet the goals and objectives of the agency as defined by Federal Performance Standards, DEEC and NAEYC regulations.
• Be available as a resource to the Health Component and CCHS staff for children’s health-related issues.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In conjunction with the Health Team, maintain best practices for children’s health in the program as defined by the Performance Standards and described in “Caring for Our Children”.
• Determine status of children eligible to start classes based on up-to date health information including immunizations, physical exam and any necessary medical plan.
• Follow up with health care providers and prepare reminder letters to parents who have not returned physical, dental or other records. Work cooperatively with staff and parents to ensure appropriate follow up.
• Maintain current documentation of all child health information in the ChildPlus database. Utilize data to provide necessary information for various state and federal reports.
• Review and revise forms and update as necessary.
• Work with Health Team to conduct hearing and vision screenings on all enrolled children within 45 days of enrollment. Inform parents that screenings will be conducted and provide them with the results.
• Conduct classroom observation of children, assist staff with head checks, and train staff as necessary on children’s individual health plans including medication administration.
• Monitor children’s Individual Health Plans at assigned sites.
• Attend monthly Component Meetings and other required Team Meetings, case conferences, and participate in staff training as necessary.
• Regularly visit assigned program sites.
• Promote health activities in the classroom.
• Communicate with physicians, dentists, health, education and social agencies as needed re: testing results and health-related needs of children and families.
• Ensure follow up on identified medical, oral and mental health needs
• Become a CPR/First Aid trainer and work with the Health Team to train CCHS staff.
• Meet with parent groups on request to discuss the health program, screening, nutrition, dental program and health resources.
• Attend and participate in Health Advisory Committee meetings.
• Remain updated on current health issues effecting young children and their families.
• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS /QUALIFICATIONS

• RN or LPN currently licensed in Massachusetts-BSN desirable
• Experience in pediatrics or public health, one year preferred
• Access to reliable transportation and willingness to travel within service area
• Job site/assignments may change based upon program needs
• Must have a suitable Background Record Check (BRC)
• Fulfillment of all specific health and safety requirements (staff physical every 2 years, with evidence of Mantoux and MMR test, OSHA, First Aid and CPR
• Must be in good physical and mental health and be able to lift and carry children and/or related equipment, bend, squat, kneel and climb stairs