What are the responsibilities and job description for the Social Services Coordinator position at MOUNTAIN EMPIRE OLDER CITIZENS INC?
JOB SUMMARY: Assists participants and caregivers in accessing community resources, public benefits, and supportive services. This position is responsible for managing and assisting with accessing, applying for, and renewals of benefits and services including, but not limited to: Medicaid, energy assistance, utility services, housing, food assistance, government and information services, legal services, and caregiver support.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Works closely with PACE Master Social Workers (MSW) and the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) to identify participant and caregiver needs.
- Research, develop and maintain a directory of available community services.
- Maintain current knowledge of local, state, and federal assistance programs.
- Coordinates referrals to community agencies or facilities, acting as a liaison and advocating for participants to obtain services for which they are eligible.
- Follows up with agencies regarding pending applications.
- Tracks application deadlines and renewal dates.
- Helps participants understand and navigate Medical eligibility issues, tracks eligibility renewals and assists with this process.
- Helps participants apply for social security disability and Medicare coverage as needed.
- Helps participants find better or alternative places to live, when appropriate.
- Helps participants maintain basic social supports so they remain safe, warm, and dry.
- Assists the clinical team with discharge planning and transitions of care, when necessary.
- Assists in the management of homebound participants and those at risk for caregiver stress through regular visits and telephone contact.
- Assists participants in obtaining identification documents when needed.
- Participates in family conferences, team meetings, committees and work groups as required.
- Participates in policy development and revision for the social services component of the program.
- Address emotional concerns and provide support.
- Assist participants in making short- and long- term plans, as needed.
- Participates in the coordination of a 24-hour care delivery system.
- Participates in the Quality Improvement program
- Documents all interactions within the medical record.
- Acts within the scope of his or her professional license.
- Other duties as assigned.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Oral and written communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Computer skills
- Organizational skills
- Problem solving and conflict resolution skills
- Record keeping and reporting skills
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None
QUALIFICATIONS:
Associate degree in Human Services, Social Services, Business, Healthcare Administration, or related field. Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Sociology, Public Health, or related field preferred.
One or more years’ experience working with a geriatric population or individuals with disabilities.
Knowledge of Medicaid eligibility and renewal processes.
Experience completing public benefit applications
Familiarity with Virginia community resources.
Strong customer service and organizational skills.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Analytical thinking and problem solving skills.
Must work well as part of a team.
Medically cleared for communicable diseases with up-to-date immunizations before participant contact.
Criminal history records check at hire.
Drug screen at hire.
WORK SCHEDULE: Full Time. PACE Center operating hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday with occasional need for after-hours/weekend support.
Salary : $41,600 - $45,760