Central Intake Specialist

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, handles requests for initial appointments, performs a preliminary mental health/chemical dependency screening, determines urgency and initial level of care, and schedules the client accordingly. This individual will schedule initial appointments based on medical necessity, insurance requirements, and all agreements with state and county licensing bodies. The Central Intake Specialist will ensure all necessary authorizations and/or referrals are in place to cover the initial appointment and will verify insurance coverage. This individual will maintain documentation and perform record keeping in accordance with agency requirements. The Central Intake Counselor will maintain confidentiality in accordance with all applicable state and federal regulations. The Central Intake Specialist will receive clinical and administrative supervision from the Central Intake Supervisor.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducts a telephonic triage of requests for initial appointments which will involve but not limited to, a brief lethality assessment, description of the presenting problem, and level of care determination

• Works cooperatively with referral sources to ensure continuation of referral support

• Verifies insurance coverage, obtains necessary authorizations and referrals, and ensures financial supports are in place for the initial visit.

• Educates the client about the treatment/rehabilitation processes and procedures as well as what to expect as a customer of BBH.

• Assessments are documented electronically and, as they are done, are transmitted to the receiving therapist and program Director.

• Completes all trainings required by the agency.

• Performs all other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associates degree in social work, psychology or closely related human services field, plus experience working with central intake or psychiatric triage. -OR- 2 years of full-time paid experience in a related mental health, substance abuse or social service agency, with experience with third party payers

• Must have knowledge of both mental health and addictive disorders and their treatment and rehabilitation.

• Must know the admission criteria for the various licensed mental health and addition services offered by BBH.

• Must possess skills in telephonic interviewing and psychiatric triage.

• Knowledge of insurance requirements and community resources is a plus.

• Must be goal directed, organized and able to work independently.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with behavioral health clients, referral sources, and community agencies.

• Must have excellent telephone engagement and customer service skills.

• Must be 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