Start a Fulfilling Career at Oak Street Health: Your Comprehensive Guide

Are you seeking a career where your work truly makes a difference? In today's dynamic healthcare landscape, finding an organization that aligns with your values and offers genuine opportunities for growth can be a challenge. If you're passionate about patient-centered care and improving lives, then starting a career at Oak Street Health might be the perfect path for you. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding their mission to successfully navigating the application process.

Why Choose a Career at Oak Street Health?

Oak Street Health is more than just a healthcare provider; it's a mission-driven organization focused on "rebuilding healthcare as it should be: personal, equitable and accountable." They specialize in value-based primary care for adults on Medicare, aiming to keep older adults healthier and living fuller lives. But what does this mean for you, as a prospective employee?

A Mission-Driven Culture

At its core, Oak Street Health is dedicated to revolutionizing primary care for seniors. This commitment translates into a work environment where patient well-being and outcomes are prioritized over the traditional fee-for-service model. Employees often feel motivated by the company's mission and vision, with 100% of employees reporting motivation from these aspects. This focus on a shared purpose can create a deeply rewarding professional experience.

Patient-Centered Care Model

Oak Street Health's innovative care model emphasizes comprehensive preventive care, personalized wellness plans, integrated health services, and educational and social activities. They offer patients quality time with clinicians, a 24/7 patient support line, and even transportation for eligible patients. As an employee, you'll be part of a team that works to provide this holistic support, truly impacting patients' health outcomes and lowering medical costs.

A Focus on Support and Development

While some employee reviews mention areas for improvement, many highlight a flexible and compassionate work environment. Oak Street Health often provides professional development opportunities, including continuing education stipends, customized development tracks, and tuition reimbursement. This indicates a commitment to helping employees grow and advance their careers within the organization.

Diverse Career Paths at Oak Street Health

Considering a career at Oak Street Health means exploring a wide array of roles that contribute to their unique care model. Whether your background is clinical, administrative, or in a support function, there's likely a place for you to start a career at Oak Street Health.

Clinical Roles

For those with a direct patient care background, Oak Street Health offers numerous clinical opportunities. These include:

• Providers: Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, and Advanced Practice Providers who deliver exceptional primary care and build lasting relationships with patients.
• Clinical Support: Roles such as Medical Scribes, Registered Nurses, Medical Social Workers, and Behavioral Health Specialists. Medical Scribes, for example, support providers with clinical documentation, allowing clinicians to focus on patient care.
• Behavioral Health: Specialists and fellows who integrate mental and behavioral health into primary care.

Administrative & Support Roles

Behind every successful patient interaction is a robust administrative and support team. These roles are crucial for seamless operations and patient growth.

• Care Coordination: Helping patients navigate their healthcare journey.
• Operations: Ensuring the smooth running of clinics and services.
• Outreach: Teams that build community relationships and educate potential patients about Oak Street Health's offerings.
• Customer Care: Providing essential support to patients and their families.

Corporate Positions

Oak Street Health also has a strong corporate presence, with teams supporting everything from human resources and marketing to data and analytics. These roles are vital for strategic expansion and maintaining the company's innovative healthcare model.

Navigating the Application Process: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to start a career at Oak Street Health? The application process is straightforward, but preparation is key.

1. Finding Openings

The first step is to visit the careers section of the Oak Street Health website, which is now part of CVS Health. You can search for jobs by category (e.g., Clinical, Corporate, Customer Care), sub-category (e.g., Behavioral Health, Clinical Leadership, Marketing), or work location (e.g., Field, Hybrid, On-Site, Remote).

2. Crafting Your Application

Once you find a suitable role, carefully review the job description. Your application materials, particularly your resume and cover letter, should be tailored to highlight how your skills and experience align with the specific requirements of the position and Oak Street Health's mission.

3. The Interview Process

If your application stands out, you'll likely be invited for an interview. This is your opportunity to showcase your passion for healthcare and your understanding of Oak Street Health's unique approach to patient care. Be prepared to discuss your experience, problem-solving skills, and how you embody values like excellence, integrity, caring, and innovation.

Acing Your Application: Tips for Success

To significantly boost your chances of starting a career at Oak Street Health, consider these tips:

• Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Generic applications rarely succeed. Customize your resume to include keywords from the job description and quantify your achievements where possible. Your cover letter should articulate why you want to work for Oak Street Health specifically and how your values align with theirs.
• Research Oak Street Health's Model: Understand their value-based care model, their focus on Medicare patients, and their mission to rebuild healthcare. This knowledge will shine through in your application and interviews.
• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Many interviews include behavioral questions (e.g., "Tell me about a time you..."). Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, providing concrete examples that demonstrate your skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Showcase Your Passion for Patient Care: Oak Street Health is deeply committed to its patients. Express your genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of older adults and contribute to a patient-centered environment.
• Network (If Possible): While not always an option, connecting with current or former Oak Street Health employees on platforms like LinkedIn can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.

Growth and Development Opportunities

For many, a career is not just about the present but also about future growth. Oak Street Health supports professional development through various programs. They offer clinical and professional fellowships, providing structured programs and mentorship for students, new graduates, and those in training across various fields. This commitment to continuous learning and internal promotion can provide a clear path for advancement once you start a career at Oak Street Health.

Conclusion

Starting a career at Oak Street Health offers a unique opportunity to join an organization that is genuinely committed to transforming healthcare for older adults. With diverse roles, a strong mission-driven culture, and a focus on employee development, it's a place where you can build a fulfilling and impactful career. If you're ready to contribute to a healthcare model that prioritizes patient well-being and innovation, then take the next step and explore the opportunities waiting for you.

Ready to make a difference? Visit the Oak Street Health careers page today and find the role that's right for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of benefits does Oak Street Health offer?

Oak Street Health offers a range of benefits, which can include health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, flexible spending accounts (FSA), and wellness programs. They also typically offer a 401(K) with matching, and professional development benefits like continuing education stipends and tuition reimbursement.

Is Oak Street Health a good place to work?

Employee reviews for Oak Street Health are generally positive, with 69% of reviews being positive according to Comparably. Many employees report a flexible and compassionate work environment, and express pride in the company's mission. However, like any large organization, some constructive feedback exists, often related to management or specific clinic operations.

What is the culture like at Oak Street Health?

The culture at Oak Street Health is often described as mission-driven, with a strong emphasis on rebuilding healthcare to be personal, equitable, and accountable. They value excellence, integrity, caring, and innovation. A sense of mutual respect and mindfulness is also noted as key to their success.

Do I need healthcare experience to work at Oak Street Health?

While many roles, especially clinical ones, require specific healthcare experience and certifications, Oak Street Health also offers administrative, corporate, and support roles where direct patient care experience might not be a prerequisite. For example, roles like Medical Scribe can be an excellent opportunity for individuals on a pre-med track or those interested in healthcare administration. Always check the specific job requirements for each position.