DISEASE INTERVENTION SPECIALIST

Position Information

Summary

The Disease Intervention Specialist is responsible for investigating sexually-transmitted diseases and positive Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases, counseling patients and exposed persons, and performing assigned clinic duties for disease control. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency policy.

Functions

Interviews patients and exposed persons to obtain personal and medical history information for positive identification of source for treatment program assignment and discusses treatment program recommendations with supervisors. Counsels patients and exposed persons, concerning available treatments and risk of delayed treatments, completes appropriate forms, and schedules patients for clinic appointments. Provides assistance in the sexually-transmitted disease clinic, including drawing blood, preparing specimen slides and cultures, and analyzing test results. Maintains documentation of confidential counseling, files, and records of each case investigated, including prognosis and treatment. Compiles and submits a monthly report of case activities to supervisor for caseload monitoring. Visits homes, hospitals, and other public and private institutions to locate exposed persons, in order to obtain medical information and records. Conducts follow-up interviews with patients to ensure continuance of treatment and completes and submits patients' charts for physician's signature. Consults with physicians, nurses, and other health professionals for the preparation of sexually-transmitted disease and HIV prevention and control materials for presentations and lectures at schools and other community organizations. Performs other duties as assigned.

Dimensions

Frequent to constant in-state travel and occasional overtime is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of interviewing techniques and counseling procedures. Knowledge of causes, prognosis, and treatment of sexually-transmitted diseases. Ability to perform diagnostic tests, conduct counseling sessions, develop treatment plans, and monitor results. Ability to compile data, prepare reports, and maintain files and records. Ability to prepare and present oral and written technical reports.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, sociology, nursing, counseling, environmental health or a related field; plus one year of experience in public health investigation and research or a related field. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Licenses

Must possess a valid Arkansas driver’s license.