Position Status
Site
NHC Position Type
Position Summary
Start Date: August 18th, 2025
End Date: July 6th, 2026
About the Position: The Dental Program Patient Advocate will will serve on behalf of the patient and the dentist, helping to assure a high level of professional excellence in oral health care delivery. The NHC Member will provide essential language support, ensuring clear and accurate communication between healthcare providers and patients, allowing for effective exchange of information and enhancing the quality of care provided. The NHC Member will also educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and will maintain accurate and confidential patient records in accordance with clinic policies and HIPAA regulations.
The NHC member will assist healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, and dental practitioners) by preparing patient records, gathering information, and providing logistical support, thereby allowing clinicians to focus more on direct patient care. Their role also includes helping with administrative tasks and assisting with volunteer recruitment.
About the Organization: Clinic by the Bay is the safety net for those who have no affordable option for high-quality, compassionate primary, acute, chronic or preventative medical care. Since 2010, Clinic By The Bay's goal has been to operate a free, volunteer-powered health clinic that provides high-quality, primary care to the hard working uninsured men and women in our community.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
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Providing interpretation services to Limited English Proficiency individuals and families
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Providing accurate, skilled interpretation to facilitate effective communications between clinical staff and patients/families
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Maintaining professional boundaries and respecting patient confidentiality
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Documenting interactions with patients in an electronic health record
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Assisting in care coordination and resource referrals
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Follow OSHA protocols and clinic standards for infection control, including the proper sterilization of dental instruments and equipment.
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Be able to effectively communicate and collaborate with supervisors and other leadership.
Characteristics of an Ideal Candidate
- Team-Oriented
- Multi-Tasker; Able to balance
- Detail-Oriented
- Able to communicate effectively with all individuals
- Compassionate
- Solid communication and active listening skills. Capable of providing empathetic and compassionate care to diverse patient populations.
- Understanding and adherence to HIPAA regulations.
- Comfortability using computers including dental software
- The member will be trained on how to use Curve Dental
- Time Management
Knowledge Required for the Position
- Knowledge of AmeriCorps/Health Corps member requirements
- Skill with Microsoft Office or other software for a variety of data processing operations involving a range of problem solving, record keeping, correspondence, and service tracking options.
- Member will be trained on Curve Dental Software
Supervision
- Member uses initiative in carrying out recurring assignments following set procedures, independently
- The supervisor assigns service activities, advises on changes in procedures, and is available for assistance when required
Review
- The service activities are reviewed for accuracy through spot checks, through complaints from customers, and through observation of the member at service.
- Completed projects are reviewed very generally to determine that objectives have been met and are in compliance with policies and regulations.
Guidelines
- Written and oral guides provide specific instructions for doing service
- Detailed guidelines exist, including regulations and directives, handbooks, precedents, industry standards, and files of previous projects
Complexity
- Member has little or no choice about how to perform the service position
- The facts or conditions of the service position are clear cut, predictable, and apply directly to the assignment
Special Considerations
- The member will:
- Serve approximately 40 hours per week.
- Clinic By The Bay's hours of operation are as follows:
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9:30 am to 6:00 pm
- Tuesday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Access to a Personal Vehicle is not required for this position. The Host Site is accessible via public transportation.
- Special safety regulations or precautions must be observed:
- Understanding of and adherence to OSHA protocols and infection control standards. (We will train on our clinic specific protocols)
- Dress Code: It is expected that members will maintain a clean and neat appearance and will project professionalism and businesslike image in dealing with other employees, patients, volunteers, and the general public.
- Position offers flexible hours/service formats for members who may need them due to childcare commitments, probation/parole requirements, or other obligations. If so, please describe the parameters of this flexibility.
Language Proficiency Requirements
In addition to English, the NHC Member is required to:
- Speak Spanish at Full Professional Proficiency, defined as "Able to use the language fluently and accurately on all levels pertinent to patient needs."
- Read Spanish at Minimum Professional Proficiency, defined as "Able to read standard newspaper items addressed to the general reader, routine correspondence, reports, and technical materials in the individual's special field."
If you are interested in the position, but have questions about the language requirement, please contact NHC SF Staff at nhcsfinfo@sfccc.org!
Criminal History Check Requirements Beyond NHC Standard Checks
- Upon Conditional Acceptance of an NHC AmeriCorps Position, all AmeriCorps members must complete TrueScreen Background Checks to be formally placed in the AmeriCorps Program.
- No Background Checks or Health Exams required beyond what is required of NHC AmeriCorps Members.