Intake Specialist - Bestself Behavioral Health : Job Details

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Starting Rate: $18 per hour Located in 899 Main St., Buffalo, NY 35 hours Full Time SUMMARY OF DUTIES The Central Intake Specialist,functioning as the client's advocate in the scheduling process, handlesrequests for initial appointments, performs a preliminary mentalhealth/chemical dependency screening, determines urgency and initial level ofcare, and schedules the client accordingly. This individual will scheduleinitial appointments based on medical necessity, insurance requirements, andall agreements with state and county licensing bodies. The Central IntakeSpecialist will ensure all necessary authorizations and/or referrals are inplace to cover the initial appointment and will verify insurance coverage. Thisindividual will maintain documentation and perform record keeping in accordancewith agency requirements. The Central Intake Counselor will maintain confidentialityin accordance with all applicable state and federal regulations. The CentralIntake Specialist will receive clinical and administrative supervision from theCentral Intake Supervisor. RESPONSIBILITIES • Conductsa telephonic triage of requests for initial appointments which will involve butnot limited to, a brief lethality assessment, description of the presentingproblem, and level of care determination • Workscooperatively with referral sources to ensure continuation of referral support • Verifiesinsurance coverage, obtains necessary authorizations and referrals, and ensuresfinancial supports are in place for the initial visit. • Educatesthe client about the treatment/rehabilitation processes and procedures as wellas what to expect as a customer of BBH. • Assessmentsare documented electronically and, as they are done, are transmitted to thereceiving therapist and program Director. • Completesall trainings required by the agency. • Performsall other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS • Associatesdegree in social work, psychology or closely related human services field, plusexperience working with central intake or psychiatric triage. -OR- 2years of full-time paid experience in a related mental health, substance abuseor social service agency, with experience with third party payers • Musthave knowledge of both mental health and addictive disorders and theirtreatment and rehabilitation. • Mustknow the admission criteria for the various licensed mental health and additionservices offered by BBH. • Mustpossess skills in telephonic interviewing and psychiatric triage. • Knowledgeof insurance requirements and community resources is a plus. • Mustbe goal directed, organized and able to work independently. • Demonstratedability to work effectively with behavioral health clients, referral sources,and community agencies. • Musthave excellent telephone engagement and customer service skills. • Mustbe computer literate and able to navigate between several programs. Benefits include: Sign on bonuses for all Multiple health insurance options Employee referral bonus Tuition Reimbursement Clinical license renewal reimbursement Generous paid time