Gerald Marcus is a dedicated Substance Use Navigator at Rely Health, bringing over 30 years of personal recovery experience to his role. With a BS in Leadership, CADDAC II certification, and CHW credentials, Gerald assists patients in understanding their substance use complications, identifying treatment needs, and navigating support systems.
Gerald's career choice stems from his own journey as a recovering addict. For the past three decades, he has been helping other addicts recover, turning his personal experience into a powerful tool for positive change.
Work Environment and Responsibilities
At Rely Health, Gerald appreciates the freedom to thoroughly perform his job and the opportunity to witness and contribute to patients' progress. His primary responsibilities include:
Achievements and Growth
The most rewarding aspect of Gerald's job is seeing the progress of the patients he assists. However, he finds the systemic barriers that make it difficult for patients to access needed treatment services particularly challenging.
Gerald takes pride in his two-year tenure at Kaiser Redwood City through Rely Health Care. The company has supported his professional growth by being consistently present and available, providing all necessary support.
Company Culture and Values
Gerald highlights Trust as the most crucial element in any relationship, praising Rely Health Care for consistently proving trustworthy. He describes the company culture as Trustworthy, Diligent, and Inclusive.
Insights and Advice
A little-known aspect of Gerald's job is the patience required to wait for a "yes" after many "no's" when trying to offer treatment resources for patients battling substance use disorders. The best professional advice he's received is to "have patience and trust the process", in which he exuberates in his work daily.
To maintain work-life balance, Gerald leaves job stress at work, enjoying time with his family, exercising, reading, watching light TV, and ensuring 6-7 hours of sleep per night. Outside of work, he enjoys walking with his wife.
Industry Perspective
Gerald is excited about the potential of AI to call patients, empathetically “listen”, provide resource suggestions, and adjust approaches based on their answers. He believes Rely Health sets itself apart by being both a tech and health company that prioritizes healthcare.
Gerald is a cancer survivor, having been cancer-free for over ten years. Congratulations Gerald! His dedication, experience, and positive outlook makes him an invaluable asset to Rely Health and the individuals he serves as a Substance Use Navigator.
