Posted Date: 6/4/2026
Job Location: Chicago
Position Type: Full-Time
Division: Nursing
Description:
Job Description: ED Navigator
Reports To: ED Clinical Director and AVP Administration
Status: Full-Time, Hospital-Based
Summary
The ED Navigator serves as a bridge between the Emergency Department (ED) and outpatient services, providing coaching, advocacy, and coordination to ensure successful transitions of care. The ED Navigator also facilitates patient access to evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders (SUDs) and mental health conditions. This role focuses on low-threshold access to Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) and comprehensive discharge planning.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
1. Patient Identification and Assessment
Identify patients with SUD or co-occurring mental health disorders in the ED and inpatient units by monitoring patient tracking systems and receiving clinician referrals.
Conduct initial brief assessments and interventions using standardized tools to determine patient needs.
Assist in the coordination of care in close collaboration with clinicians in patient evaluation and treatment.
Establish rapport and build positive relationships with patients, including those from marginalized or underserved populations.
2. Treatment Engagement
Facilitate the initiation of MAT in collaboration with hospital clinicians.
Use motivational interviewing techniques to communicate with patients in a respectful, non-judgmental, and culturally appropriate manner.
Educate patients and families on treatment options, withdrawal symptoms, and long-term recovery strategies.
Advocate for the use of non-stigmatizing language and evidence-based care standards throughout the facility.
3. Discharge Planning and Follow-Up
Develop discharge plans that address social determinants of health, including insurance coverage, transportation, and cost barriers for medications.
Schedule follow-up appointments at MAT-capable clinics and facilitate referrals to primary care, mental health services, and residential treatment facilities.
Maintain contact with patients post-discharge to remind them of appointments and help navigate obstacles to continued care.
Work with hospital staff to set up a robust system for ensuring patient referral and follow-up outside of the EDN’s regular hours.
4. Documentation and Data Management
Enter all patient encounter data and discharge plans into the electronic health record (EHR) according to hospital protocols.
Track and report program metrics, such as the number of patients served, successful referrals, and treatment initiations.
5. Community Outreach
Build and maintain a network of community service providers to address the diverse needs of patients.
Utilize community resources to assist patients in achieving optimum level of functioning - socially, physically and psychologically.
Conduct outreach to local community organizations, shelters, and support programs to build trust and increase awareness of available hospital services.
Qualifications
Communication: Ability to communicate with diverse patient populations clearly, respectfully, and positively.
Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related Human Services field; or 2+ years of experience as a Community Health Worker. Certification: Community Health Worker (CHW) Certification preferred or in progress.
Knowledge: Strong understanding of SUD as a medical condition and familiarity with evidence-based treatments like MAT.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in using computers and electronic health record systems.
Hourly Range $21 to $25
Benefits
