Support Planner

SCOPE OF POSITION:

The Supports Planner assists individuals with complex medical and/or behavioral health needs, older adults, children, and youth with disabilities and their families in navigating, identifying, and accessing essential supports and services. This role enables participants to lead full and meaningful lives by incorporating principles of self-direction and person-centered planning. The Supports Planner develops a Plan of Service and provides ongoing case management, requiring kindness, patience, effective communication, computer proficiency, resourcefulness, time management skills, and a strong knowledge of community resources within the service areas.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities:

· Educate applicants/participants on goal identification and selection of natural and community supports to enhance their lives.

· Empower applicants/participants through promoting independence, person-centered planning, self-determination, and creativity.

· Identify, coordinate, and connect participants with appropriate supports and services that align with their strengths, needs, goals, choices, and values.

· Research eligibility and ensure benefits are active and readily accessible.

· Provide ongoing support and monitoring to maintain Medicaid eligibility and waiver enrollment.

· Explore alternative supports and funding sources to meet identified needs.

· Collaborate with applicants/participants, service professionals, and others to ensure necessary supports and services are located and implemented.

· Follow up with local health departments and relevant agencies for assessment and Plan of Care completion.

· Coordinate a Plan of Service that reflects the participant's desired level of self-direction, based on preferences, needs, desires, and goals, to assist with community integration and independence.

· Enter case notes and billable services into relevant systems.

· Document all interactions with participants, family members, agencies, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders electronically in real-time.

· Develop annual Plans of Service for participants, specifying preferences and required supports and services.

· Conduct face-to-face monitoring, team meetings, and visits as needed to ensure the participant's health, safety, and satisfaction.

· Monitor all reportable events per applicable policies.

· Prepare and submit necessary forms and modifications to Plans of Service in accordance with policy.

· Apply for or reapply for necessary programs, services, or supports promptly to prevent or address gaps in eligibility.

· Identify new medical, social, and behavioral service needs during monitoring visits and interactions.

· Establish and maintain working relationships, responding promptly and using independent judgment to access services.

· Conduct detailed evaluations and prepare reports as necessary.

· Assist with transition activities from institutions to community settings to ensure continuity of support/services.

· Adhere to principles of self-direction and person-centered planning.

· Comply with conflict-free case management policies and procedures.

· Follow all guidelines for the protection of Personal Health Information (PHI/ePHI).

· Complete required training and demonstrate ongoing commitment to professional development through participation in meetings and training opportunities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

· Flexibility to work from home and in the community.

· Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

· Strong understanding of case management principles for individuals with complex medical and behavioral health needs.

· Professional knowledge of federal and state assistance programs.

· Familiarity with community resources supporting participants.

· Understanding of Home and Community-Based Waiver services.

Decision Making:

· Capacity to multitask, prioritize work, meet deadlines, and produce quality results with attention to detail.

· Ability to make ethical decisions that comply with relevant codes of conduct and regulations.

· Avoid conflicts of interest that could impact the organization.

· Ensure secure sharing of files and information in compliance with HIPAA.

· Obtain necessary disclosures and authorizations prior to sharing information.

Qualifications:

· Valid driver's license with reliable transportation, insurance, and a good driving record.

· Bachelor’s degree in a human services field (e.g., psychology, social work, nursing, counseling) or equivalent experience in case management.

· U.S. citizenship or lawful authorization to work in the U.S.

· Ability to pass a criminal background check.

· Flexibility to respond to crisis situations, including nights and weekends.

· Effective written and oral communication skills.

· Strong organizational and time management skills.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ability to learn new technologies.

Working Conditions and Environment:

· Ability to lift 20 lbs (e.g., laptop, briefcase, files).

· Capacity to drive to and from community meetings and monitoring.

· Ability to sit for data input and perform tasks requiring reaching, pulling, pushing, and bending.

· Ability to navigate stairs.