This is a position within The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Information Resource Center (IRC); the individual in this role will work among a team of Information Specialists. Within prescribed protocols and following extensive training, an Information Specialist responds to phone and electronic inquiries received from patients and caregivers affected by blood cancer; he/she also offers current and accurate disease, treatment and coping information, as well as referrals to financial and psychosocial resources within and outside of LLS. For each inquiry, it is expected that an Information Specialist document the patients’ and caregivers’ demographic information, needs, and information/resources provided. The Information Specialist will also educate patients about clinical trials and conduct searches when appropriate. Additionally, an Information Specialist assists in the maintenance of the blood cancer resource directory, suggested reading list and contributes to the monitoring of online patient forums. He/she is expected to keep current on blood cancer risk factors, diagnoses, treatments and coping strategies.
- Using prescribed protocols, respond to phone and email blood-cancer related inquiries from patients, caregivers, and professionals; give accurate, current information on risks, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, follow-up care and medical facilities/providers.
- Provide blood cancer patients and caregivers referrals to needed financial and psycho-social resources that are available from LLS and other local and national organizations.
- Schedule and conduct proactive follow-up calls to patients and caregivers as appropriate to provide further navigation that will help them access care or services.
- Complete an electronic record documenting each interaction, specifically capturing the demographics of the individual receiving assistance and delineating all details of each inquiry, including action taken and information/resources provided. Maintain confidentiality at all times.
- Conduct internet searches to identify specific disease, treatment, and resource information for patients.
- Conduct clinical trials searches for IRC callers, as requested and based on information provided, to assist in finding appropriate blood cancer trials; refer to LLS’s clinical trial navigation lead as indicated.
- Keep current on developments and trends related to detection, treatment and research regarding blood cancers by reading peer-reviewed literature, materials from professional organizations, and attending professional symposia/conferences.
- Provide information and consultation to national and chapter staff on blood cancer diagnoses and treatments as requested.
- Represent IRC at professional meetings, conferences, and in partnership initiatives and as requested, both by phone and in person.
- Collaborate on the submission of abstracts to professional organizations for presentations as requested.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
- Thorough working knowledge of medical terminology
- Solid computer and data entry skills
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Excellent organizational skills and follow through
- Proven ability to follow precise directions, to deal professionally and sympathetically with cancer (or other life threatening illness) patients and their families, and to be calm under pressure
- Passion for helping patients and their families
- Previous experience in the field of oncology preferred
- Must be able to navigate multiple sources of information
- Must be fluent in Spanish
- Occasional travel is necessary
Education and Experience Requirements:
- Three years of previous experience in a health care delivery setting working with patients and their families.
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
- Physical demands are minimal and typical of similar jobs in comparable organizations
- Work environment is representative and typical of similar jobs in comparable organizations
- Position offers the opportunity for intermittent travel (up to 10%)