Community Health Educator

The Kidney Society

The Kidney Society is the only organisation of its kind in New Zealand, providing wrap-around support services in the community to individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and their whānau.  Additionally, we operate three community dialysis houses - comfortable, flexible spaces where individuals can dialyse closer to home, avoiding hospital trips while maintaining employment and improving quality of life. 

We serve over 3,000 people annually. Through advocacy, resources, and holistic care, we empower individuals and their whānau to manage their condition and live the best lives that they can. Our work focuses on addressing the unique challenges faced by communities across New Zealand, ensuring equitable access to vital support services.

Position Overview

The Kidney Society is seeking a passionate and motivated health educator/ navigator to join our team. The primary focus of this role is work alongside individuals and their whānau providing support and information with a focus on empowering them to live their best lives.

Key responsibilities

• Assist patients in interpreting information by health professionals and in formulating questions to ask
• Host and participate in pre-dialysis and other education programmes run by regional renal services.
• Create and adapt practical, community-based education resources that support patient understanding and self-management.
• Maintain a working knowledge of relevant educational and other resources, products, forms & services and proactively use these for the benefit of clients.
• Act as an advocate for patients, ensuring their needs are represented within the healthcare system.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of patient interactions and treatment plans.
• Participate in case conferences and team meetings to discuss patient progress and care coordination. 

Person Specification:

Essential

• Minimum 3 years’ experience working in health or a community-based role. A New Zealand nursing and/ or renal background would be advantageous.
• Demonstrates strong cultural awareness with the ability to work with people from all cultures and backgrounds.
• Understanding of the dynamics of living with a chronic illness and the ability to accept and respect the rights of clients to make their own treatment and end of life decisions.
• Ability to listen, interpret, clarify and engage with clients in a supportive and non-judgemental manner.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Knowledge of community resources and support services available to patients and families.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines and standards of practice.
• A full clean New Zealand Driver’s Licence.
• NZ Citizen or Resident; or have a valid New Zealand work visa.

Please submit your CV and cover letter to kath@kidneysociety.org.nz.

We look forward to hearing from candidates who are committed to making a difference in the lives of people impacted by kidney disease.