Submitted by Whatcom Community College
Health care and human services professionals interested in the emerging field of care navigation and coordination can enroll in Whatcom Community College’s care navigation and coordination 15-credit certificate program. Graduates will have skills to succeed in specialized health care roles in patient navigation, care coordination, patient advocacy, health coaching, community health work and related areas. These professionals guide patients through the complex care system, help them to access resources, and empower patients to achieve a healthy lifestyle. These skills are used in a wide range of jobs including nursing, social work, medical assisting and human services. As the health care system evolves to interdisciplinary team models, employers are looking for professionals with the abilities taught in this program.
Registration for the seven-credit fundamentals course begins Dec. 3. Classes start January 2016. Class meets in-person on select Saturdays (8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) and Tuesdays (5:30-8 p.m.) through March. Students will also complete an estimated 40 hours of online course work. The eight-credit, spring quarter advanced course builds on the fundamentals class with advanced level knowledge and strategies to influence positive patient outcomes. Coursework includes coordinating care of diverse patients in health and human services, including communication strategies and advocacy. Students will gain skills in coaching, motivational interviewing and health literacy techniques. Students with experience in care coordination may qualify for prior learning credit. This program is also offered as non-credit via Whatcom’s Community and Continuing Education. Visit whatcom.edu/carenav for more information or to register.
