FAQ
Care Navigator Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply into the Care Navigator Program if I am not a Health Scholar?
Yes, we welcome applications from both Scholars and those who are new to COPE. Please go to https://apply.copehealthscholars.org/prog/care_navigator/ to submit an application.
What makes Care Navigator unique?
Care Navigator scholars are able to explore the social determinants of health because they are an active player in the Case Management team. By having access to patient records via Epic, Care Navigator scholars have enough insight to meet a patient where they are when interacting with them.
What is the main difference between a Care Navigator Scholar and a Health Scholar?
While Health Scholars are able to assist patients with discharging by preparing their belongings, checking in at the nurses' station, and dropping them off at the appropriate location, Care Navigator Scholars assist the Case Managers and Patient Care Coordinators in ensuring that the patients receive the right care beyond their hospital visit. Care Navigator tasks include but are not limited to scheduling follow-up appointments with hospitalists/TMCs, delivering the Important Message (IM) letter, following up with Skilled Nursing Facilities, and calling for transportation (i.e. Care Ambulance Services).
What are the benefits in joining the Care Navigator program?
The relationship the Case Management staff has with the Care Navigators is a new dynamic. There are not many Care Navigator scholars to begin with, which allows for more personable interactions with the staff and encourages scholars to be more involved with the discharging process.
What are the shifting availabilities?
Care Navigators have the option from shifting on two departments: Case Management and Quality Excellence. Each unit has different shifts available Monday through Sunday; please refer to our Departments page for more information!
Am I allowed to shadow a Care Navigator scholar before I apply?
Yes! Please email sjodcn@copehealthscholars.org regarding shadow shifts. Scholars may shadow a Care Navigator for as long as they like; however, these hours will not count towards graduation or Care Navigator hours as they are not cleared to access Epic or a patient's Medical Record.
I am a Health Scholar coming from a Pod 1 Floor, can I still apply to be a Care Navigator?
Yes, all current Health Scholars are eligible to apply to become a Care Navigator! You can find the application on CORE ELMS.
How many hours do I need to complete as a Care Navigator to earn the certificate? When will I receive this certificate?
Care Navigator scholars must complete a minimum of 200 hours in the program to be eligible for the certificate. This certificate is separate to the one received from the Health Scholar program and is given to the scholar upon graduation.
Do my Care Navigator hours count towards my graduation hours?
Yes, Care Navigator hours shifted will count towards your graduation. However, if a Health Scholar completes his or her 280 required graduation hours before the anticipated graduation date they may not graduate early.
Can I continue shifting as a Care Navigator after my six-month stay with the program?
Yes, you may continue shifting as a Care Navigator beyond your six-month commitment. After your six months have passed, you may shift on a different Health Scholar tier along with shifting as a Care Navigator; this "fast-track" benefit is unique to Care Navigators who are also Health Scholars.
Is Care Navigator under a POD?
Care Navigator is no longer under a POD; it is its own program. As of now, the Care Navigator program consists of two departments, Case Management and Quality Excellence.
Care Navigator Uniform
Care Navigators may dress in business casual attire when shifting at the hospital. A Care Navigator polo shirt (as pictured on the far left) is provided for all Care Navigators but is not required to be worn during shifts.
Have additional questions? Email us at: