Patient Education Coordinator - Temp

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Patient Educator identifies, and facilitates the development of educational strategies that may be utilized by Adirondack Health healthcare providers to educate patients and their support persons at the individual and programmatic level. The Patient Educator collaborates with Adirondack Health staff to assess patient learning needs, develop educational plans, consult or provide implementation of the learning plan, and evaluate the effectiveness of that plan with the patient. The overall goal is to provide the information, tools, training, and support necessary to assist patients and their support persons in making informed decisions, utilize health care resources effectively, maximize self-care, enhance recovery and achieve the optimal possible quality of life for the individual.
Educational methods will be based on current research, theory, and evidence-based practice. The Patient Educator will positively affect patient outcomes through patient and family/support person education on an individual and programmatic level; provide educational support to nursing staff; participate in multi-disciplinary activities; design and evaluate programs for patients and families; and work on projects at the unit, division, hospital, and community levels.
The Patient Educator maintains up-to-date knowledge on disease and disorder related issues, as well as prevailing technology and education principles in order to serve as an effective resource to the patient community and participate in events designed to increase health awareness. She/he collects, trends, analyzes and reports aggregate data to identify best practices and target performance improvement and program development.

Educational Requirements and Qualifications:

Must be a graduate of an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, Public Health, Education, other healthcare-related field, or pursuing such a degree preferred. Equivalent experience may be considered. Three years of patient education teaching experience required. Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) credential required. Certified Tobacco Training Specialist (CTTS) preferred.
Must be self-directed, work effectively with others, handle multiple projects simultaneously, organize time well, solve problems and communicate effectively. Undergraduate or graduate course work in patient education principles and demonstrated effective teaching skills preferred. Basic understanding of program methodologies and program planning preferred. Expertise in group management and public speaking is preferred.Ability to effectively communicate and relate information to individuals of varying ages from diverse socio-economic backgrounds required. Must be able to take the lead in a confident and competent manner in emotionally demanding situations. Familiarity with MS Office Suite and Internet use required; Familiarity with Meditech a plus, and will be required within 3 months of hire.

Pay Range:

$44.00 - $48.00 per hour