Job Description: Health Educator
Position: Health Educator
Department: Social Work and Human Services > Public Health
Reports to: [Supervisor/Manager Name]
Summary:
The Health Educator is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating health education programs to promote and improve public health outcomes. This role involves assessing health needs, developing educational materials, coordinating community partnerships, and delivering evidence-based interventions. The Health Educator will engage with diverse populations, identify health disparities, and strive to empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions for their overall well-being.
Responsibilities:
1. Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify health education needs and priorities within the target population.
2. Develop and implement health education plans, programs, and interventions aligned with established goals and objectives.
3. Create engaging and culturally appropriate educational materials, including brochures, pamphlets, presentations, and online resources.
4. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure the integration of health education strategies into public health programs.
5. Establish and maintain partnerships with community organizations, schools, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to facilitate health education initiatives.
6. Organize and conduct workshops, training sessions, and community events to raise awareness and promote healthy behaviors.
7. Deliver evidence-based health education interventions, utilizing various teaching methods and techniques that cater to diverse learning styles.
8. Monitor, evaluate, and report on the effectiveness of health education programs, employing appropriate data collection and analysis methods.
9. Stay updated on current research, best practices, and emerging trends in health education and public health to inform program development and delivery.
10. Advocate for policies and practices that support health promotion, disease prevention, and equitable access to healthcare services.
11. Maintain accurate and confidential records of program activities, participant information, and evaluation results.
12. Collaborate with other professionals to address social determinants of health and promote health equity within the community.
13. Adhere to ethical standards and professional guidelines in all aspects of health education practice.
14. Participate in professional development activities, conferences, and workshops to enhance knowledge and skills.
Qualifications:
1. Bachelor's or Master's degree in Public Health, Health Education, Social Work, or a related field.
2. Proven experience in developing and implementing health education programs, preferably within a public health or community-based setting.
3. In-depth knowledge of health behavior theories, health promotion strategies, and evidence-based interventions.
4. Familiarity with social determinants of health and their impact on vulnerable populations.
5. Ability to assess community needs, design educational materials, and deliver effective health education interventions.
6. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and build rapport with diverse individuals and communities.
7. Excellent presentation and facilitation skills, with the ability to adapt content to various audiences.
8. Proficiency in using technology for program planning, data collection, and health education delivery.
9. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams and establish partnerships for community-based initiatives.
10. Knowledge of program evaluation methodologies and experience in monitoring and reporting on program outcomes.
11. Understanding of health policies, regulations, and ethical considerations related to health education practice.
12. Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
13. Commitment to cultural sensitivity, inclusion, and equity in health education practice.
14. Certification in Health Education (e.g., Certified Health Education Specialist, CHES) is preferred.
Note: The above job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required.