The purpose of this classification is to conduct the investigation of reported cases of communicable diseases.

Essential Functions The Disease Intervention Specialist is responsible for the following essential functions:

Interviews and re-interviews patients having, or who are suspected of having a sexually transmitted infection, tuberculosis, or other communicable disease for the purpose of locating and referring sexual partners, TB contacts, and other contacts for examinations and treatments

Conduct field follow-ups on patients, contacts of infected patients, and others who may have been exposed, or whose laboratory test suggest a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or tuberculosis infections, or both; once located contacts are referred to an appropriate facility for examination, testing, and treatment

Consults with private physicians, laboratories, and community health facilities to stimulate reporting of positive cases and to provide information on treatment and diagnostic determination; secures permission to treat patients of private physicians, and provide current information on diagnosis and treatment

Assists in obtaining and processing both serologic and bacteriologic laboratory specimens for testing, and to assist with the monitoring of quality control systems related to the processing of laboratory specimens

Maintains accurate and detailed records and reports for program evaluation purposes; includes documenting all communication and correspondence with patients, contacts of infected patients, private physicians, and other health care providers, including public health departments in other geographical areas

Performs venipuncture in the clinic and in the field as indicated

Will collect other needed specimens in the filed as indicated

Delivers medication in the field and will transport laboratory specimens as necessary (urine, blood, sputum)

Performs a variety of educational activities interfacing with schools, colleges, youth, and adult programs

Upholds standards of confidentiality on all patients/contacts related to testing, results, interviewing, exposure, and treatment as required by law and local health department policy/regulations

Training and qualifications for the position include the following:

Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences, Public Health, or related field

Minimum of two years of social counseling experience or related field

Must possess and maintain a valid TN driver's license.

Must have reliable transportation and carry appropriate insurance coverage on personal automobile

Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered for employment into the position

Bilingual in Spanish and English is preferred, but not required