Deadline: 4/18/17
Douglas County Health Department is seeking a Disease Investigator. Under the direction of the Health Director, or designee, the incumbent assists in the investigation and follow-up of suspected and confirmed cases of communicable diseases and other physiologic conditions. Provides education to infected individuals regarding prevention and control and assists in the implementation of appropriate disease prevention strategies.
Essential Functions include:
Conduct investigation of reported suspected and confirmed cases of reportable communicable diseases and other physiologic diseases.
Interview designated infected individuals in person and by telephone, as an information gathering and follow-up measure to ensure the individual is aware of the condition and symptoms of the condition; and document activities for each interview.
Identify and document “at risk” contacts of infected individuals to ensure they are aware of their potential exposure to the condition and the symptoms of the condition.
Provide appropriate disease control recommendations and medical follow-up/treatment referrals to infected individuals and at risk contacts. Document activities.
Educate affected individuals and exposed persons regarding risk factors and prevention measures.
Collect necessary information to complete morbidity reports on reportable cases of communicable disease in a tactful and discreet manner ensuring adherence to federal, state, and local privacy and confidentiality regulations.
Complete and file required federal, state, and county reports for each suspected and confirmed case; and update data pertaining to reported cases of communicable diseases.
Within program-specified timeframe(s), record all required disease interview and investigation information, notes, and case reports into Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) designated disease-specific electronic database(s) for later compilation and analysis.
Perform other disease-related job duties as directed. These duties may include: nontraditional testing for sexually transmitted infections, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus; interviewing, education and testing in DCHD Clinics; tuberculosis (TB) control activities including Directly Observed Therapy (DOT); and pick-up and delivery of patient medications.
Collect and transport specimens for testing and epidemiological follow-up when necessary. Remain abreast of and correctly follow current specimen handling and collection requirements and procedures
Provide current public health information regarding communicable diseases to health care providers, infected individuals, and the general public consistent with DCHD policies and in accordance with national public health recommendations.
Remain aware of local, state, and national communicable disease statistics, trends, and statutes.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, clients, supervisors, healthcare/community agencies, schools governmental officials, and the general public.
Assist in the implementation of appropriate disease control activities during local disease outbreaks.
Requirements:
Bachelors degree in Public Health, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Medical Technology, Nursing (BSN), Environmental Science, or Social Sciences.
Directly related work experience in communicable disease control preferred.
Experience in the use of computers, office software, and spreadsheet software.
Fluent in both English and Spanish preferred.
Completion of a preemployment screen and criminal records check.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and own mode of transportation at the time of hire and throughout the course of employment.
View the full job description and apply online here.