What are the responsibilities and job description for the program eligibility specialist position at Arkansas Government Job?
PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST
The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe.
We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working at DHS.
At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.
Job Summary
The DHS Program Eligibility Specialist works under general supervision and is responsible for determining client eligibility, obtaining client information, coordinating services with providers, and preparing information and recommendations.
This position requires computer keyboarding skills, frequent travel including some overnight, lifting up to 20 pounds, frequent stooping and bending, ability to sit for extended periods of time including riding in a vehicle, overtime, ability to utilize current phone system, clear enunciation, and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Reviews referrals for services and interviews applicants and/or family members to explain eligibility requirements, form completion requirements, and community resources.
- Requests information to determine client eligibility or needs and forwards requests for approval to appropriate staff in accordance with established procedures.
- Provides information regarding resources, assistance, and services available to applicant and may visit with client and family members in their homes to determine client needs and provide family and/or parent behavior modification counseling.
- Schedules initial intake conference with client and/or family members, following eligibility determination, to obtain written and oral information regarding psychiatric, psychological, medical background, financial status, and other previous professional recommendations.
- Evaluates requests and professional findings, in accordance with policies and procedures, and initiates procedures to grant, modify, deny, or terminate eligibility for assistance with recommendations and options for services, referring client to alternative sources, or preparing additional requests for evaluation and assistance.
Requirements
The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, or a related field. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management.
Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.
About Us
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.