Consumer Benefits Specialist

Position Summary

The Consumer Benefits Specialist under the direction of the Consumer Access Manager and/or Director of Admissions and within federal, state and local guidelines performs routine human services support work. The Consumer Benefits Specialist provides information to consumers or assists staff in the delivery of social services. The Consumer Benefits Specialist assists consumers in obtaining SSI (Supplemental Security Income)/Medicaid and other relevant benefits by screening for eligibility, obtaining necessary information and documents, assisting with the completion of forms, and assisting consumers throughout the application and appeal process. The Consumer Benefits Specialist is assigned to work with consumers and will act as a resource for benefits information to the staff and consumers of those assigned units.

Key Responsibilities

Salary range $49,000 - $59,000

The following list outlines key responsibilities for the position; however, it is not exhaustive and does not encompass all responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

Consumer Screening & Eligibility

• Screen consumers for eligibility by completing the appropriate applications and/or financial assessment(s) for various relevant benefits including but not limited to Medicaid, Medicare, QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary), SSI, Social Security
• Contribute to the ongoing development of financial assessment and eligibility screening tools for various relevant benefits
• Maintain necessary information and documentation for completion of the initial screening process
• Use all available resources to collect information and supporting documentation necessary to complete eligibility screening as appropriate for consumers scheduled
• Communicate with external agencies (e.g., Social Security Administration, DC Medicaid, DHS) to track applications and resolve eligibility issues
  
  

Documentation & Coordination

• Accurately enter and maintain consumer benefits data in the agency’s electronic record system; generate reports as needed
• Provide or obtain information to/from clinic and case coordination staff to facilitate completion of the screenings initiated
• Generate and maintain reports related to benefits status, application outcomes, and pending verifications
• Ensure all benefits-related documentation and communications comply with HIPAA, Medicaid, and organizational privacy standards
  
  

Staff & Program Support

• Serve as a resource and subject matter expert for staff and consumers regarding benefits eligibility, application processes, and policy changes
• Participate in program planning, policy development, and interagency coordination of Medicaid and related eligibility programs as assigned
  
  

In addition to role responsibilities, each staff member of Community Connections has the following responsibilities as a part of their employment:

• Models and reinforces Community Connections mission to provide behavioral health, residential services, and primary health care coordination for marginalized and disenfranchised women, men, youth, and children living in the District of Columbia, many of whom are coping with challenges including mental illness, addiction, and the aftermath of trauma and abuse.
• Models and reinforces Community Connections values of quality, innovation, respect, equity, and integrity daily.
• Reinforces Community Connection’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Protects the privacy of our consumer’s protected health information by maintaining compliance with HIPAA and other relevant CC related IT security regulations.
• Completes and stays current on role specific and organizational wide training.
• Performs other duties as assigned on an as-needed basis.
  
  

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

Education, Training, And Experience

• Required AA. Preferred BA.
• Required 2 years, preferred 4 years, working experience in behavioral health, supportive housing, or homelessness fields, financial intake, and knowledge of Medicaid enrollment.
• Must have working knowledge of computers in a Windows-based environment.
  
  

Registration, Certification, Licensure, And Other Qualifications

• Must have and maintain a background and criminal history free from any disqualifying offenses.
• Successful completion of all position-specific training within thirty (30) days of employment is required.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Knowledge of the needs, problems, and community environments of persons with disabilities; of community and government service delivery systems; of case management systems; and of community welfare resources.
• Skill in the operation of computers and applicable computer software.
• Ability to negotiate services and to effectively communicate.
• Ability to display regular and reliable in-person attendance.