Clinical Nurse Lead bei Charter Oak Health Center

Description

The Clinical Nurse Lead is a vital member of the healthcare team, responsible for providing high-quality triage services to patients and overseeing daily clinical operations within the community health center. This role combines clinical expertise with leadership responsibilities, including direct supervision of receptionists and medical assistants. The Clinical Nurse Lead ensures the delivery of safe, efficient, and patient-centered care while supporting operational excellence and staff development. 

Requirements

Triage Services:

· Perform telephone and in-person triage for patient concerns, assessing the urgency of medical issues using clinical protocols.

· Use evidence-based guidelines to determine appropriate care pathways, including home care, provider visits, urgent care, or emergency services.

· Provide patients with education and clear instructions for symptom management, medications, or when to seek additional care.

· Accurately and promptly, document all triage assessments, advice given, and care coordination efforts in the electronic health record (EHR).

· Collaborate closely with providers and the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to address patient issues, optimize triage protocols, and ensure high-quality clinical decision-making.

· Participate in ongoing evaluation and continuous improvement of triage protocols, workflows, and patient communication strategies.

· Follow up on unresolved triage concerns and ensure continuity of care for patients requiring monitoring, test results, or further intervention.

· Utilize technology, including patient portals and telehealth tools, to enhance access and communication with patients.

· Identify potential emergencies and escalate according to established clinic emergency procedures.

Clinical Operations Oversight:

· Coordinate and manage daily clinical workflows to ensure timely and effective patient care.

· Monitor clinical protocols, supplies, and equipment to ensure compliance with safety standards.

· Participate in quality improvement initiatives and help implement policies that enhance clinic efficiency and patient outcomes.

· Serve as a liaison between providers, clinical and non-clinical staff, and administrative personnel.

· Coordinate and supervise the activities of clinical team members engaged in direct patient care under the supervision of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and Vice President of Nursing services.

· Organize and assign clinical duties and responsibilities to ensure an efficient and effective workflow.

· Oversee clinical supply inventory and ensure availability and proper functioning of clinical equipment.

· Assist medical assistants, patient service receptionists, and providers with maintaining smooth patient flow and reducing wait times.

· Attend clinical meetings, summarize key takeaways, and relay important updates to the clinical team.

· Collaborate with Operations, IT, HR, and other departments to support seamless clinic functioning and interdepartmental communication.

· Support investigation and resolution of patient complaints or care concerns; recommend and implement corrective actions when appropriate.

· Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, standards of care, and clinic protocols.

· Oversee and evaluate the performance of medical assistants, and front desk staff to ensure tasks are completed accurately, efficiently, and professionally.

· Review and correct employee timesheets respond to time-off requests, and coordinate payroll submissions for clinical and non-clinical staff.

· Prepare and manage monthly work schedules and maintain accurate attendance records.

· Conduct staff performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback, including verbal and written reviews.

· Identify and recommend solutions to personnel or operational issues affecting team performance.

· Participate in interviews, and provide training on clinical and non-clinical policies and procedures.

· Promote a respectful, team-oriented work environment that values open communication and collaboration.

· Monitor compliance with HIPAA and clinic-specific standards for patient confidentiality and documentation.

Qualifications

Education and Licensure:

· Registered Nurse (RN) with a current state license.

· Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred.

· Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) required.

Experience:

· Minimum of 3-5 years of clinical nursing experience, preferably in a community health or outpatient setting.

· Previous experience in a leadership or supervisory role preferred.

· Experience working in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).

· Knowledge of EHR systems and familiarity with clinic quality improvement practices is preferred.

Core Competencies:

The ideal candidate demonstrates strong precision and accuracy in clinical documentation, patient triage, and operational responsibilities, ensuring high standards of care are consistently met. They are capable of leading and motivating both clinical and administrative staff while fostering collaboration in a fast-paced environment. Sound clinical judgment and critical thinking guide their decision-making, especially when addressing patient needs under pressure. They maintain a calm, empathetic, and professional demeanor during high-stress situations, providing both emotional support and clinical leadership. Excellent communication and organizational skills allow them to manage competing priorities, facilitate seamless team coordination, and ensure effective interactions with patients, providers, and fellow staff members