COPD Clinical Navigator

The COPD Program Navigator is an expert nursing/respiratory therapist/pharmacy professional responsible for the strategic development, operational management, and outcome monitoring of the institutional Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Program. Under the direction of the Clinical Effectiveness leadership, this role collaborates with the multidisciplinary team across the system to assess population needs, identify barriers to care (such as transportation or financial issues), and ensure the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective, evidence-based care. The Navigator holds primary accountability for performance measurement, concurrent and retrospective data abstraction, coordination of program certification efforts (including Disease-Specific Care certification for COPD), and facilitating seamless transitions of care from the acute and outpatient (ER) setting to post-acute care and the community. This position systematically evaluates clinical practice using performance improvement methodologies and acts as a change facilitator to optimize patient outcomes, focusing particularly on pulmonary rehabilitation utilization, medication adherence, and readmission reduction efforts for COPD and Pneumonia patients. The Navigator exhibits our F.I.R.S.T. values (Friendliness, Innovation, Respect, Service, and Trust).

WORKING CONDITIONS, HAZARDS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:

Works in a well-lit, ventilated and air conditioned area. Often exposed to unpleasant odors, sights and sounds. Long periods in a stationary position and moving around the unit are required. Risks exposure to disease, infection and physical strain and assault. Risks exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue, radiation and antineoplastic agents. Must be able to move or position 50 lbs. independently.

Qualifications

Experience: 

• Minimum of three - five (3-5) years of clinical experience in an acute care setting (e.g., Emergency Department, ICU, or dedicated Stroke Unit).
• Minimum of three (3) years of specialized experience in program coordination, clinical quality improvement, or care coordination is preferred.
• Previous experience caring for patients with COPD, Pneumonia, or other related lung disorders is preferred.