Health Support Specialist

Job Summary

The incumbent provides basic medical services to WIC participants in the Polk/Hardee County WIC Program, working under the supervision of the WIC/Nutrition Division Nutritionist Supervisor.

• Perform height, length, weight, and hemoglobin measurements on WIC eligible clients using standard, approved hematologic and weighing techniques.
• Document anthropometric and hematological data accurately in the FL WiSE system according to program procedures.
• Screen WIC clients’ immunization records as per all nursing and public health department policies and document immunization status in the FL WiSE system.
• Calibrate equipment according to product instructions and document results in an appropriate log book; maintain cleanliness of equipment and laboratory by cleaning at least once daily, following universal precautions and the biomedical waste plan.
• Complete quarterly “Missing Bloodwork Report” and submit the report to the clinic manager.
• Maintain inventory of medical supplies at base site and recommend medical supply quantities for purchase by clinic supervisor.
• Train new staff on correct techniques in obtaining anthropometric and hematological data needed for client certification per all local, state, and federal rules and guidelines.
• Annually check staff competencies for correct technique in obtaining client anthropometric and hematological data.
• Determine financial eligibility of clients for the WIC Program based on income guidelines.
• Document proof of client identification, residency and physical presence in the FL WiSE data system per program policy.
• Collect and organize medical data for final review by the Health professional for WIC medical/nutrition risk eligibility; this may involve extensive client questioning, sending for medical records, etc.
• Conduct follow-up necessary for the ongoing health care of participants; follow-up may include review and transcription of medical data and determining need for medical evaluations.
• Issue WIC benefits and maintain electronic WIC files.
• Provide interactive secondary low‑risk nutrition education and assist clients in related goal setting.
• Educate clients on program rules, regulations and benefits redemption.
• Maintain significant understanding of the FL WiSE data system.
• Complete administrative forms/reports such as EARs, timesheets and travel per department policies and required deadlines.
• Receive, secure, issue and maintain inventory control of special formulas.
• Prepare program reports as assigned, such as duplicate enrollee reports, vendor/client contact reports, high‑risk enrollee reports, delinquent reports, voter registration reports, etc.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings, in‑service trainings and other staff development activities.
• Assist with outreach activities, health fairs and other community activities as needed.
• Conduct quality improvement (QI) monitoring and reporting as directed by supervisor.
• Complete all mandatory trainings within required time frames.
• Perform other assigned duties as requested by supervisor.
• Comply with all Department of Health and WIC security and confidentiality rules and regulations.
• Serve clients that speak only Spanish, Creole, or other languages; this may require interpreter duties if bilingual or implementation of the Department’s Limited English Proficiency Plan.
• Perform additional interpreter duties consistent with skill level as required.

• Ability to use a computer, printer, scanner, and calculator.
• Ability to use WIC program‑related software and provide proof of successful completion of the WIC WISE competency test, or new hires able to pass this test within 60 days of hire.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to perform all lab duties and anthropometrics.
• Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments.
• Ability to determine work priorities and ensure completion of assignments.
• Ability to review work for accuracy and quality of content.
• Ability to train others.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to interpret rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Ab…