Job Description
The Patient Education Specialist reflects the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Memorial, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines, and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
Under the supervision of the Patient Education Program Manager, this healthcare professional coordinates the development, implementation and maintenance of resources and programs that support patient education across the continuum of care, which enhances the best patient experience and outcomes to establish NMC as a trusted source of health information. Collaborates with NMC clinicians and consumers to maximize the value of educational opportunities between outpatient, inpatient, physician offices, the Health Learning Center, its satellites, and the Alberto Culver Center.
Responsibilities:
- Effectively communicates with all clinicians and patients involved in patient education and the Health Learning Center.
- Coordinates the review of vendor materials and classes and assures compliance with standards.
- Assesses and communicates patient education staff development needs to the Patient Education Program Manager.
- Conducts educational programs for appropriate physician, nurse and patient groups in pertinent clinical area.
- Monitors quality and accessibility of patient education materials throughout NMC.
- Assists in the efficient and timely review and/or development of NMC educational materials (video, print, including the Intranet and Internet) and assures compliance with standards.
Clinical
- Provides patient education consultation using in-depth clinical knowledge, skills and expertise across the continuum of care
- Provides quality, comprehensive and coordinated patient education resources and services.
- Guides staff in methodologies to evaluate indicators of quality patient education
Professional:
- Integrates research-based knowledge and clinical expertise in decision making
- Develops and gives presentations on topics related to patient education
- Writes papers related to patient education and presents for publication
- Exemplifies a professional image in appearance, manner, and presentation
- Advocate for patients, families, coworkers, the community, and nursing profession
Education
- Participates in programs to meet continuing education needs of staff.
- Serves as a resource to staff in the development of appropriate learning materials
- Provides formal education to both internal and external groups pertinent to area of specialty.
- Provides formal orientation and education of staff pertinent to area of specialty.
Quality
- Identifies patient education needs at all patient access points
- Facilitates compliance with regulatory patient education guidelines
Research
- Utilizes current research findings to support and improve patient education resources, activities, and programs.
- In conducting patient education classes, this individual will adapt teaching methods to accommodate the age specific learning needs of the target audience.
- Performs other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Required
- State of Illinois, Professional Licensure (based on specialty).
- Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation recognition (healthcare provider level).
- Master’s degree in nursing or healthcare related field, with a focus on adult/clinical education.
- Five years professional clinical experience.
- This self-directed individual must have excellent written and verbal communication skills and be proficient in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint computer applications.
Preferred
- Demonstrated success in the development, delivery and evaluation of education materials and strategies.
Additional Information
Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
If we offer you a job, we will perform a background check that includes a review of any criminal convictions. A conviction does not disqualify you from employment at Northwestern Medicine. We consider this on a case-by-case basis and follow all state and federal guidelines.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
