Health Coaches serve for six months and work one-on-one with their assigned patient. Coaches encourage and support the patient while they learn how to define personal health-related goals, navigate the health care system, access community resources, make lifestyle changes to improve health and improve their self-management skills.
Free training in a 12-week online course is provided. By participating in the course, you will gain:
- Knowledge about chronic illnesses including diabetes, COPD, heart disease, and high blood pressure
- Active listening and communication skills, including motivational interviewing
- Familiarity with local community resources
- Experience serving as part of a Primary Health Care team
- Skills for empowering patients
Coaches call patients at least once per week and meet in-person (or via a confidential video call) at least once per month. If applicable, in-person visits may occur in the patient’s home, a coffee shop, at a clinic, or at a community resources such as the YMCA, farmer’s market, or community center. All visits are compliant with COVID-19 guidelines. Coaches also get together weekly via Zoom for a team meeting, beginning after the 12-week course is completed.
Read more about the program in this flyer. Learn how to apply.
For more information and to apply, please contact Laurie King RN, Health Coach Program Manager at laurie_king@valleymed.org.
