Under direction of the Consumer Services Supervisor and within federal, state and local guidelines performs routine human services support work. Work involves providing information to clients or assisting staff in the delivery of social services.

The Consumer Benefits Specialists assists MHMR clients in obtaining SSI (Supplemental Security Income)/Medicaid and other relevant benefits by screening for eligibility, obtaining necessary information and documents, assisting with the completion of forms, and assisting clients throughout the application and appeal process. The Consumer Benefits Specialist is assigned to work with consumers and will act as a resource for benefits information to the staff and clients of those assigned units. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Education, Training and Experience (including licensure and certification)

High School Diploma or GED required. Prefer 2 years of college, experience in the MHMR field, financial intake and knowledge of Medicaid enrollment. Must have working knowledge of computers in a Windows based environment.

REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, LICENSURE OR OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must maintain a valid Texas driver's license, auto liability insurance and a driving record acceptable to the Centers insurance requirements.
• All job specific training must be completed within 30 days of hire.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the needs, problems, and community environments of persons with disabilities; of community and government service delivery systems; of case management systems; and of community welfare resources.
• Skill in the operation of computers and applicable computer software.
• Ability to negotiate services and to communicate effectively.
• Understanding and practice of Trauma Informed Care principles.

Essential Duties

1. Screens consumers for eligibility by completing the financial assessment; contributes to the ongoing development of financial assessment and eligibility screening tools for various relevant benefits including but not limited to SSI/Medicaid, Social Security/Medicare, PASS(Plans for Achieving Self-Support), Star, QMB(Qualified Medicare Beneficiary), SLMB(Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary), and CHIPS (Children's Health Insurance Program); completes maximum monthly fee process and enter financial information into MIS.

1. Maintains necessary information and documentation for completion of the initial screening process; uses all available resources to collect information and supporting documentation necessary to complete eligibility screening as appropriate for 95% of all clients scheduled; conducts interactions with staff and clients in an effective, professional and ethical manner 100% of the time; provides or obtains information to/from clinic and case coordination staff to facilitate completion of 100% of the screenings initiated; assists 100% of clients being referred to complete application forms to the extent necessary.
2. Acts as a Resource Specialist for outpatient clinics as assigned by the Director; conducts the initial interviews with clients to determine their eligibility for agency purchase of prescribed medications; provides coverage during hours of operation of assigned clinic.

1. Participates in and contributes to program planning, policy development and interagency coordination of Medicaid eligibility programs; attends and participates in departmental meetings monthly; performs inter and intra-agency research for projects to contribute to program planning activities as needed; attend and participate in monthly meetings to develop strategies to increase Medicaid system capacity, focus Medicaid services on specific populations, etc.

1. Maintain and operate company vehicle as required (if needed to complete eligibility screening); maintains current auto liability insurance and provide proof to Human Resources.