WIC Certifier

As a WIC Certifier with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health in Belfair, you will be responsible for conducting nutritional assessments and certifying clients for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. You will also prescribe tailored food packages based on individual client needs, provide basic health education around nutrition and lactation, and assist with the scheduling of client appointments. Documenting services and ensuring compliance with federal and state policies will also be key responsibilities.

To qualify for the WIC Certifier position at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, candidates must have an associate's degree in a related field and at least two years of relevant experience, or a bachelor's degree with one year of experience. Moreover, current certification as a Medical Assistant-Registered or Medical Assistant-Phlebotomist in Washington State is necessary, or must be obtained within 90 days of hire.

As a WIC Certifier at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you will work directly with women, infants, and children who qualify for the WIC program. The focus will be on encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, providing nutritional assessments, and assisting clients in accessing community resources essential for their health and well-being.

In the WIC Certifier role at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, community health nutrition is a core component. You will be responsible for educating clients about nutrition, avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy, and offering guidance on lactation. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to guide clients to community resources that aid in their comprehensive health needs.

The work environment at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health for a WIC Certifier is collaborative, supportive, and dedicated to patient-centered care. You will become part of a passionate team that values effective communication and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that all clients receive the highest quality support tailored to their needs.

When assessing a client's nutritional needs, it's important to listen carefully and ask open-ended questions based on federally mandated assessment guidelines. You should also look for signs of nutritional risk to determine qualifying factors and tailor your recommendations accordingly.

In a difficult client interaction, it's essential to remain calm and empathetic. I would listen actively to understand their concerns and provide clear, respectful responses. It's also important to offer solutions while maintaining professionalism throughout the situation.

Effective time management can be achieved by prioritizing tasks and using scheduling tools. I believe in setting clear timelines for each client appointment and making sure that all documentation is completed promptly, allowing me to focus more on providing quality care.

I stay informed about changes in WIC program policies by regularly reviewing updates from official WIC sources, participating in professional development workshops, and engaging with colleagues to share knowledge and best practices.

My approach to providing health education is interactive and tailored to the client's needs and understanding. I use relatable examples and resources that empower clients to make informed decisions about their nutrition and lifestyle.

I have longstanding experience referring clients to various community health resources, which includes understanding local services such as food banks, parenting programs, and healthcare facilities. It’s crucial to build strong connections with community organizations to offer comprehensive support.

I maintain cultural sensitivity by being aware of different cultural backgrounds and adapting my communication style as needed. I make use of appropriate materials and resources that respect and embrace diversity, ensuring that clients feel comfortable and understood.

Teamwork is vital in the WIC Certifier position, as collaboration enhances the overall care our clients receive. Working together with colleagues allows for sharing insights and resources, leading to better client outcomes and more efficient service.

I handle client appointments by creating a well-structured scheduling system that includes regular follow-ups and reminders. This way, I ensure clients are informed about their appointments and can access services with minimal delays.

I want to work as a WIC Certifier at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health because I am passionate about improving maternal and child health in our community. I admire the organization's commitment to patient-centered care and believe my skills align perfectly with the mission.