The Substance Use Navigator is a care coordinator and an integral team member of a statewide initiative to improve access to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). Navigators conduct initial brief assessments, introduce patients to MOUD programs and services, expedite appointments at MOUD-capable clinics, serve as the primary coach for their clients, and maintain ongoing contact with their panel. They also assist with access to other services such as financial counseling, primary care, mental health services, social services, and residential treatment facilities.

• Communicate with hospital staff daily during weekdays to recruit patients and provide support to staff around Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) : Monitors the ED and inpatient patient tracking systems to screen for eligible patients; checks-in with ED and inpatient clinicians and nursing staff to screen for eligible patients.
• Identify current primary medical provider (PMP) and behavioral health providers. Works to connect patient with existing MOUD treatment available at current PMP and/or behavioral health location if available, unless patient prefers an alternate MOUD treatment location. Identify primary medical home if not secured.
• Maintain updated, in-depth knowledge of local and regional substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs including capacity, insurance requirements, and additional services provided at local and regional programs  (benefits assistance, housing assistance, mental health, primary care, etc.).
• Develop positive working relationships with ED staff and community agencies.
• Assess and address any barriers to attending follow up appointments (transportation, contact phone # availability for appt reminders, shelter needs, etc). Engage social services to assist with any of these issues as needed.
• Arrange transportation to nearby residential treatment facilities and partner programs
• Assist with navigating barriers to patients obtaining buprenorphine prescription from pharmacy (insurance status, copay expense, cost differences between formulations, etc). Routinely assists patients by having the patient and/or pharmacist call from the pharmacy to sort out encountered insurance barriers in real time.
• After discharge from ED +/- Inpatient, on the day prior to follow up appointment contact patients to remind them of their follow up appointment.
• Collect data related to number of buprenorphine/methadone administrations, prescriptions, and referrals to care.
• Other duties as assigned.

Secondary Function: 

• Position will be housed in the Emergency Department. Includes follow up with Hospital and MCH patients as needed.