ISMELY POLANCO
Lawrence,USA
Summary
Dedicated and collaborative professional committed to enhancing community health through empathetic patient interactions. Expertise in building trust and rapport with diverse populations, leveraging persuasive communication to educate and advocate for essential health services. Proven track record of effective teamwork, ensuring optimal care and support for community members. Knowledgeable in health education, resource coordination, and culturally sensitive outreach initiatives, consistently prioritizing the well-being and empowerment of individuals.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Community Health Worker
Lowell Community Health Center
Lowell, MA, USA
09.2022 - 02.2025
- I worked at Lowell Community Health Center (LCHC) as a Community Health Worker in addressing the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) that impact the well-being of LCHC patients and the Lowell community.
- Establish strong relationships with patients and understand their unique needs and challenges.
- Help patients access resources like food banks, housing assistance, and transportation.
- Advocate for patients' needs within the healthcare system and with external agencies.
- Created educational materials such as brochures, pamphlets, and online resources to support outreach efforts.
- Developed and implemented educational programs and outreach initiatives to engage the community in environmental conservation.
- Utilized effective teaching strategies to promote understanding and retention of health information.
- Performed home visits to meet patients where they are at.
- Pick up and delivered essential need items most likely baby clothes and baby items.
- Participate in pilot programs such as cardiovascular (high blood pressure).
Community Health Worker
Greater Lawrence Family Health Center
Lawrence, MA, USA
05.2021 - 09.2022
- The Community Health Worker (CHW) plays a vital role in our HIV program, acting as a bridge between the healthcare system and the community.
- As a CHW working at GLFHC I provided culturally competent outreach, education, support, and advocacy to individuals and families affected by or at risk for HIV and other STIs.
- This position requires strong interpersonal skills, community knowledge, and a commitment to improving the health and well-being of our clients.
- Outreach and Engagement: Conduct outreach to identify and engage individuals at risk for or affected by HIV. Build rapport and trust with community members.
- HIV Education: Provide accurate and culturally appropriate education on HIV transmission, prevention methods (including PrEP), testing, treatment, and care. Address misconceptions and stigma.
- Linkage to Care: Assist clients in accessing HIV testing, medical care, and support services, including PrEP providers, mental health services, substance use treatment, and other relevant resources.
- Adherence Support: Provide ongoing support and counseling to clients living with HIV to promote medication adherence and retention in care. Develop individualized support plans.
- Community Mobilization: Participate in community events and outreach activities to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and promote prevention strategies.
- Data Collection and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of client interactions and program activities. Contribute to program evaluation efforts.
- Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other members of the HIV care team, including medical providers, case managers, and mental health professionals. Build and maintain relationships with community partners.
- Cultural Competency: Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect in all interactions with clients and community members.
- Professional Development: Participate in ongoing training and professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills related to HIV/AIDS and community health work.
Operator
BD Medical
Andover, MA, USA
02.2017 - 08.2019
- Build devices per written protocol and approved deviation.
- Follow work instructions and operate semi-complex equipment, as necessary.
- Use basic measuring devices to assess quality of assemblies.
- Perform visual inspections based on documented criteria.
- Run automated equipment, perform set-ups, troubleshooting and components exchange.
- Complete and maintain build paperwork in accordance with ISO and GMP Standards.
- Train new crew and special work.
- Perform Kitting and Inventory count.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Public Health
Regis College
Weston, MA05-2027
Associate's degree - Public Health
Northern Essex Community College
Haverhill, MA05.2021
Certification in Community Health Worker - undefined
Northern Essex Community College
HaverhillSkills
- Thorough understanding
- Technical literacy
- Skilled in Microsoft Office tools
- Effective multitasking
- Efficient at acquiring new skills
- Knowledge of HIPAA compliance
- Effective motivational interviewing
- Data gathering
- Certified in first aid
- Health promotion
- Health education
- Community engagement
- Resource advocacy
- Home visiting
- Team assignments
- Chronic disease management
- Collaborative teamwork
- Leadership skills
Certification
- Community Health Worker, 2021-03-01, Present
Languages
Spanish
English
Timeline
Community Health Worker
Lowell Community Health Center
09.2022 - 02.2025
Community Health Worker
Greater Lawrence Family Health Center
05.2021 - 09.2022
Operator
BD Medical
02.2017 - 08.2019
Certification in Community Health Worker - undefined
Northern Essex Community College
Bachelor of Science - Public Health
Regis College
Associate's degree - Public Health
Northern Essex Community College
Awards
High Honors, 2019-09-01