Options Counselor

Summary of Duties:

Helps individuals and their families navigate the complex landscape of long-term care options by assessing needs, providing information about available services and community based long-term care options such as in-home care, assisted living, PACE, nursing homes, and community support programs, and guiding them towards the best choice based on their individual preferences and financial situation, ultimately empowering them to make informed decisions about their long-term care plan.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Other duties may be assigned.

· Conduct comprehensive assessments with individuals and their families to understand their physical, cognitive, and social needs, as well as their desired living situation and care;

· Educate clients about various long-term care options, including different types of facilities, service levels, costs, and eligibility requirements for government programs;

· Collaborate with clients and their families to create a personalized care plan that aligns with their needs and goals, including service referrals and advocacy for appropriate care;

· Identify and connect clients to relevant community resources like transportation services, adult day care, home-based care providers, and financial assistance programs;

· Provide unbiased guidance and facilitating informed decision-making regarding the most suitable long-term care option for the individual;

· Help clients complete necessary paperwork for long-term care services, including Medicaid applications, insurance forms, and facility admissions processes;

· Must have the ability to effectively communicate complex information to clients and their families in a clear and empathetic manner;

· Must be skillful in navigating complex situations and finding solutions to address client challenges;

· Have an ability to advocate for clients' needs and ensure they receive appropriate care;

· Commit to maintaining confidentiality and upholding professional standards when working with clients;

· Maintain an understanding of different long-term care settings, services, and funding sources available at the state and federal level;

· Engage with community organizations, healthcare providers, and the general public to raise awareness about long-term care options and the role of an options counselor;

· Be available for evening or weekend appointments, if necessary.

· State Health Insurance Program training may be required for this position.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.