EPIDEMIOLOGY PROGRAM REPRESENTATIVE 53141

11/1/91 E

This is the first and entry level class in the Epidemiology Program series which is composed of positions responsible for the direct provision of epidemiological services to the public. Positions in this class perform testing, counseling, education and referral activities for clients diagnosed with a communicable disease. This class is distinguished from the Epidemiology Program Supervisor by the latter class's responsibility for supervising and coordinating the activities of Epidemiology Representatives within an assigned geographic area.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of routine difficulty requiring the investigation of known and suspected cases of communicable diseases and notifying appropriate medical and legal authorities of identified cases. Provides counseling, education and referral for clients regarding treatment of their communicable disease. Collects blood samples and performs other disease testing procedures. Conducts educational programs for clients, relatives, schools, churches and civic organizations. Prepares case reports and statistical information regarding clients. Interviews clients in health department clinics and other settings.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor.

Supervision Received: Receives general supervision from an Epidemiology Program Supervisor or other higher level position.

Scope: Performs counseling, education and referral activities for clients within a specified geographic area.

Impact of Actions: Duties contribute to the timely and effective intervention and control of sexually transmitted diseases, resulting in reduced health care costs and local community health risks.

Personal Contacts: Frequent external contacts with the general public and health care providers to exchange information and arrange testing procedures.

Knowledge: Some knowledge of the cause, transmission, treatment, and prevention of communicable diseases; and of federal and state laws, regulations, and policies regarding the reporting and control of diseases. Some knowledge of biostatistics and laboratory testing.

Skills: Skill in venipuncture.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with health care professionals and the general public.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from an accredited college or university with course work in public health or a related field.

Level and Type of Experience: Experience in epidemiology, public health, or a related area.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class specification is the result of a Classification Review/Specification Update Program study and replaces the Epidemiology Program Representative A class, effective November 1991.