HIV Retention Specialist

Texas Health Action (THA) is a community-informed non-profit organization dedicated to providing access to culturally affirming, quality health services in a safe and supportive environment, with expertise in serving LGBTQIA+ people and those impacted by HIV. Kind Clinic proudly serves Texas with four vibrant locations: two in Austin, one in San Antonio, and another in Dallas plus virtual care services available to all residents across Texas. Bolstered by Waterloo Counseling Center and a passionate team of over 250 dedicated employees and volunteers, THA is at the forefront of promoting healthcare equity and accessibility throughout the state. Read more about THA here: http://texashealthaction.org.

The HIV Retention Specialist plays a crucial role in ensuring that patients living with HIV remain engaged in their care, and assist identifying and minimizing barriers preventing appointment attendance. This position focuses on providing comprehensive patient support services, enhancing adherence to treatment plans, and improving overall health outcomes. The specialist will work closely with patients, healthcare providers, and support staff to deliver personalized assistance and interventions tailored to individual needs regarding People Living With HIV (PLWH).

Core Functions:

1. Patient Engagement and Support:
• Serve as primary contact for PLWH who are Out of Care or with no upcoming appointments with a focus on completing HIV Care and lab appointments.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve patient retention in HIV care.
• Conduct regular follow-ups with patients to assess their adherence to treatment and address any barriers to care.
• Provide emotional support and counseling resources, with possible linkage to ongoing case management services, to patients coping with the challenges of living with HIV.
• Connect patients with clinical staff, patient advocates, and/or case management to resolve barriers to ongoing HIV Care.
• Facilitate patient education on HIV management, treatment options, and preventive measures.
• Conduct home visits as required by the nature of the role; mileage compensation.
2. Data Management and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, including treatment adherence, appointment attendance, and outcomes.
• Analyze data to identify trends and areas for improvement in patient retention strategies.
• Prepare and present reports on patient engagement, retention rates, and program effectiveness.
3. Collaboration and Coordination:
• Work closely with medical professionals, social workers, and community organizations to ensure a holistic approach to patient care.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient progress and develop coordinated care strategies.
• Assist in the development and implementation of patient support programs and initiatives.
• Assist clinical and support staff in current HIV retention efforts to increase Viral Load Suppression goals.
• Monitor patient progress and adjust care plans as necessary to address evolving needs.
4. Quality Improvement:
• Evaluate and enhance existing patient support services to improve retention and health outcomes.
• Stay current with best practices and emerging trends in HIV care and retention strategies.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of staff training related to patient engagement and retention.

Compensation:

Based on job duties and requirements, this position is placed in pay grade 37 with a full-time, hourly rate of $20.80 . The actual compensation package will be based on the candidate's qualifications and experience.

EOE Statement: Texas Health Action is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Applicant Information:
Submitting official transcripts, diplomas, certifications, and licenses may be required prior to final offer. Unofficial transcripts and copies of other relevant documents may be attached to the application for consideration in advance.

Information regarding employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position may be needed for employment verification.

The applicant selected for employment is subject to a pre-employment background check. A history of conviction may not automatically disqualify an applicant. Applicants with a history of conviction may be considered on a case-by-case basis, after individualized assessment of factors including the nature of the conviction, the job duties and responsibilities, the length of time since the conviction, and evidence of mitigation or rehabilitation. If required for the position, a physical, motor vehicle record evaluation, and additional background checks may be conducted.

Requirements

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Nursing, Public Health, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
• Certification or licensure in case management, social work, or related field is advantageous.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working in a healthcare or social services setting, with a focus on chronic disease management or HIV care. Experience with LGBTQIA+ and/or other marginalized communities a strong plus. Experience working successfully with ethic, racial, economic, and sexually diverse populations. Familiarity and experience using a trauma-informed approach to working with individuals, and experience and comfort in discussing issues related to substance use, harm reduction, homelessness, mental health, gender care, and LGBTQ communities.
• Strong understanding of HIV treatment, adherence issues, and patient support services.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (403b)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Holidays)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Parental Leave
• Longevity pay