Position Summary:

The Outreach and Enrollment Specialist plays a crucial role in promoting access to healthcare services for the community by conducting outreach activities and assisting individuals with enrollment in health insurance programs. This position aims to increase awareness of MHSI's services, facilitate access to care, and support patients in navigating the healthcare system.

POSITION-SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Outreach:

• Develop and implement outreach strategies to inform the community about MHSI services and programs.
• Conduct presentations and workshops and attend various community events to educate the public about available healthcare services and insurance options.
• Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, schools, faith-based groups, and other stakeholders to enhance outreach efforts.
• Distribute educational materials and information at community locations and events.

Enrollment:

• Assist individuals and families with completing applications for health insurance programs, including Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Marketplace plans.
• Provide one-on-one support to patients to help them understand their health insurance options and eligibility requirements.
• Follow up with applicants to ensure the enrollment process's completion and resolve any issues, including with all patients scheduled daily.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all enrollment activities and patient interactions.

Patient Navigation:

• Serve as a resource for patients (including walk-ins), helping them navigate the healthcare system and access necessary services, always treating people with dignity and respect.
• Provide information on sliding fee scales and assist patients with financial assistance applications as needed.
• Coordinate with healthcare providers, case managers, and other staff to ensure seamless care transitions, including advocacy and meeting any SDOH needs.
• Utilization of the State of Wisconsin Access System and other community resources to support patient continuity of care.
• Tracks and contacts patients directly to provide support and follow up with the application process for families to successfully enroll in a health insurance program.

Administrative Duties:

• Track and report outreach and enrollment activities, including the number of individuals contacted, reached, and enrolled.
• Document all patient encounters, including outreach, enrollment, and walk-ins, for weekly, monthly, and annual reporting requirements, including SDOH data. 
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in health insurance policies, regulations, and programs.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Human Services Manager.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent; Associate degree in public health, human services, social work, or a related field, bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in community outreach, healthcare enrollment, or a related field.
• Ability to become certified within a year of employment as a Certified Application Counselor with WI-DHHS/OCHIN and demonstrate knowledge of Marketplace/Medicare/Medicaid.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and insurance to perform job-related duties based on department needs.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and educate individuals with diverse backgrounds.
• Knowledge of health insurance programs and the enrollment process.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and self-manage duties.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data entry systems.
• Bilingual skills (English/Spanish or other languages) preferred.

Work Environment:

• Frequent travel to community locations and events.
• Available for some evening and weekend hours as required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry materials up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods during outreach activities.

Expertise: Ability to provide culturally competent benefits services to a variety of clients in a direct, responsive manner. Willingness to confront traditional barriers in respect of benefits application for clients. Strong interactive "team" skills within a primary medical care setting. Excellent interpersonal skills and empathy towards patients. Able to develop teaching and counseling sessions as needed. Able to adapt to changing situations and circumstances. Willing and able to assume and delegate the needs of clinic patients as a member of the health care team.

Language: Comprehend and use basic language, either written or spoken, to communicate information and ideals.

Hours of Work: May vary based on Organizational need.

Travel: May vary based on Organizational need.