Interior Health Authority Is Now Hiring Multiple Candidates For Community Health Worker – Fernie, BC

Job details

Location: Fernie, BC
Salary: $20–$22 an hour
Job type: Full Time , Part time
Shift/Hours: Morning, night, overnight

Interior Health is currently seeking a Community Health Worker to join our team at the Fernie Health Centre in beautiful Fernie, BC.

Are you dedicated to delivering patient-centered care? Are you looking for a flexible work schedule? If the answer is ‘yes’ then we want to hear from you!

About the Job:

As a Community Health Worker, you will work as part of a dynamic team of Nurses and LPNs who support Community Clients’ independence and ability to stay at home. Community Health Workers provide home support services to clients, by assisting with personal care and daily living, while promoting maximum independence. Community Health Workers are key players in the home health care plan for each client.

Typical duties include:

• Activities of daily personal care, such as bathing, dressing, grooming and oral hygiene
• Household duties related to maintaining a safe and healthy environment in the home
• Meal preparation in accordance with designated plans
• Assistance with mobility and transfers
• Observing and reporting changes in client behaviour and condition
• Performing delegated tasks according with training and procedures

This is a 0.74 PERMANENT PART TIME opportunity . This is 4 on 4 off, serving Fernie and the South Country clients. Shifts of work will be days rotating from 07:00 to 15:30.

The successful applicant of a permanent posting will be eligible for our full comprehensive benefits plan including medical and dental coverage, group life and disability insurance, paid sick and vacation time and an excellent pension!

Please note that the Relocation Allowance Program could be offered for this position. Relocation allowance is applicable to qualified candidates, who are required to relocate more than 40 km from their current work location, as a result of recruitment to a permanent vacancy.

For people with certain health issues, age-related limitations or other disabilities, managing everyday tasks can be challenging. The support that we provide through the Home Support program enables clients to recover or simply remain at home rather than in a hospital or care facility – in many cases our visits can be the highlight of their day! If you are looking for an opportunity to do meaningful work while joining a great team, Fernie Health Centre is the place for you. Apply today!

About this location/unit:

Fernie Fernie is a historic mountain town founded in 1898. Fernie is located in southeast British Columbia, Canada and is completely surrounded by the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Employment Benefits:

We offer a range of employee benefits and services to support you at every stage of your career:

• Employer paid vacation
• Insurance premiums 100% paid by Interior Health
• Medical Services Plan
• Extended Health Coverage
• Dental Health Coverage
• Pension Plan

Interior Health is an organization where you have room to grow and where life outside of work is just as important to us as it is to you. Apply Today!

See why Interior Health is a Top 100 BC Employer!

• Grade 12
• Graduation from a recognized Resident Care Aide/Home Support Worker Program, or an equivalent combination of
• education, training and relevant experience
• BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker registry (please include your number)
• Current valid BC Drivers’ License and use of a reliable vehicle

*Along with a copy of your CV (or resume) please provide a copy of your certificate.*

What skills and qualities are important for a Community Health Worker?

Skills and qualities that are important for a Community Health Worker (CHW) include a combination of interpersonal, organizational, and healthcare-related abilities. CHWs play a vital role in promoting community health and bridging the gap between healthcare services and the community they serve. Here are some key skills and qualities for a CHW:

1. Excellent Communication Skills: CHWs need to effectively communicate with individuals, families, and community members. This includes active listening, clear verbal and written communication, and the ability to explain complex health information in a way that is easily understood by diverse populations.
2. Cultural Competence: CHWs work with diverse populations, so cultural competence is crucial. They should be respectful of different cultural beliefs, practices, and values. Understanding cultural nuances helps build trust and enables CHWs to deliver culturally sensitive care.
3. Empathy and Compassion: CHWs often work with individuals facing health challenges or socio-economic disparities. Having empathy and compassion allows them to provide emotional support, understand individual needs, and advocate for their clients’ well-being.
4. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: CHWs encounter various health-related issues and obstacles within their community. Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills enable them to assess situations, identify resources, and develop effective strategies to address challenges.
5. Health Education and Promotion: CHWs educate community members on preventive measures, health behaviors, and healthy lifestyle choices. They should possess the ability to deliver health education materials, provide guidance, and empower individuals to take control of their health.
6. Cultural Mediation and Advocacy: CHWs act as advocates for their community, facilitating access to healthcare services, navigating the healthcare system, and addressing barriers to care. They may need to advocate for their clients’ needs within healthcare settings and assist in resolving conflicts or misunderstandings.
7. Organizational and Time Management Skills: CHWs often have multiple responsibilities and work with diverse individuals. Effective organizational and time management skills enable them to handle administrative tasks, maintain accurate records, and manage their caseload efficiently.
8. Collaboration and Teamwork: CHWs frequently collaborate with other healthcare professionals, community organizations, and social services providers. Strong teamwork skills allow them to effectively communicate and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, ensuring holistic care for their clients.
9. Flexibility and Adaptability: Community health work often involves working in dynamic and unpredictable environments. CHWs should be flexible, adaptable, and able to adjust their approach based on the needs of the community and the challenges they encounter.
10. Confidentiality and Ethical Conduct: CHWs work with sensitive health information and must adhere to strict ethical guidelines. They should maintain confidentiality, respect privacy, and uphold professional standards while working with individuals and their health data.

These skills and qualities, coupled with appropriate training and knowledge in public health and community health principles, contribute to the effectiveness and impact of a Community Health Worker in improving the health outcomes of the communities they serve.

What education and certification are required to become a Community Health Worker?

The specific education and certification requirements to become a Community Health Worker (CHW) can vary depending on the country, state, or organization you intend to work for. However, I can provide you with some general information on the typical qualifications and certifications that are often required or recommended for individuals pursuing a career as a CHW.

Education:

1. High School Diploma or Equivalent: Generally, a high school diploma or its equivalent is the minimum educational requirement for becoming a CHW. However, some positions or organizations may prefer candidates with higher levels of education, such as an associate or bachelor’s degree.
2. Relevant Courses: While not always mandatory, completing relevant coursework can be beneficial in preparing for a career as a CHW. Courses in health education, public health, psychology, sociology, communication, and social work can provide a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.

Certification and Training:

1. CHW Training Programs: Many states or organizations offer CHW training programs that provide specialized education and training for individuals aspiring to become CHWs. These programs may cover topics such as community health, health promotion, cultural competency, advocacy, communication skills, and basic medical knowledge.
2. Certification: Although certification is not always required, obtaining certification as a CHW can enhance your professional credentials and demonstrate your competence in the field. Certification requirements and processes vary by region and organization. Some states or certifying bodies offer specific CHW certifications, while others may accept national certifications, such as those offered by the National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE) or the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC).

It’s important to note that the requirements for becoming a CHW can differ significantly based on the country, state, or employer. I recommend researching the specific requirements in your desired location or contacting local public health departments, community organizations, or educational institutions for accurate and up-to-date information.

The employer accepts applications from:

• Canadian citizens and permanent or temporary residents of Canada.
• Other candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit.

How to apply
Online: Apply On Company WebSite

What is the work environment like for Community Health Worker?

Community Health Workers (CHWs) typically work in a variety of settings, including community health centers, clinics, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and community-based organizations. Here are some aspects of the work environment for CHWs:

1. Community-Based: CHWs primarily work in the community, often in the neighborhoods or populations they serve. They engage with individuals and families in their homes, community centers, schools, workplaces, or other accessible locations. This allows them to establish trust, build relationships, and provide services directly where people live and work.
2. Varied Workplaces: CHWs may have a flexible work environment and may not be confined to a traditional office setting. They may spend a significant portion of their time out in the field, meeting with clients, conducting health education sessions, organizing community events, or participating in outreach activities.
3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: CHWs often work as part of a larger healthcare or social services team. They collaborate closely with healthcare professionals, social workers, nurses, doctors, public health officials, and other community support workers. This collaborative approach ensures that comprehensive and coordinated care is provided to individuals and communities.
4. Culturally Diverse Communities: CHWs frequently work with diverse populations, including individuals from different cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. They need to be culturally sensitive and responsive to the unique needs, beliefs, and practices of the communities they serve. This may involve understanding cultural norms, language barriers, and adapting their approach to provide culturally appropriate services.
5. Fieldwork and Outreach: CHWs spend a significant amount of time in the field, conducting outreach activities, health assessments, health education sessions, and connecting individuals to needed healthcare and social services. They may also assist with navigating the healthcare system, providing referrals, and supporting individuals in accessing appropriate resources.
6. Advocacy and Health Promotion: CHWs often serve as advocates for their communities, working to address health disparities, promote preventive care, and support community-wide health initiatives. They may organize and facilitate workshops, support groups, or community events to raise awareness about health issues and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

Overall, the work environment for CHWs is community-focused, dynamic, and client-centered. It requires strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations to improve health outcomes and promote well-being within communities.