General Description

Under the direction of the PASRR Supervisor, and within federal, state, and local guidelines, performs PASRR evaluations for individuals who enter into nursing facilities and may qualify for the PASRR program.

The PASRR Evaluator reviews information and performs assessments of those individuals who are referred to and/or residing in a nursing facility to ensure a least restrictive living environment. This process is to ensure the appropriate admittance into nursing facilities and provides assistance in obtaining alternative living opportunities for those who request alternative housing. This person coordinates all specialized services; such as, day programs, independent living skills, physical therapy, etc. for the individual. The person in this position obtains and reviews medical records and history of those referred to or residing in nursing facilities who have a history of an Intellectual Developmental Disability and/or Mental illness. This position then uses those records are used to complete the PASRR Evaluation to determine if the individual referred is eligible for MI or IDD PASRR services.

Job responsibilities are conducted in accordance with the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), HHSC Performance Contract, HHSC program specific Handbooks, Medicaid requirements, Center policies and procedures as well as other applicable state and federal laws. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Organizational skills are a must, along with critical thinking abilities.

Education, Training, and Experience

· Bachelor's or advanced degree from an accredited college or university with a major in social, behavioral, or human service field, such as psychology, social work, medicine, nursing, rehabilitation, counseling, sociology, human development, gerontology, educational psychology, education, or criminal justice.

· At least one year of experience working directly with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities to meet the requirements of a QIDP.

· Must qualify for QMHP credentialing.

· Local IDD Authority experience is preferred.

Registration, Certification, Licensure, and Other Qualifications

· Must have and maintain a background and criminal history free from any disqualifying offenses as outlined by the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).

· Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and automobile insurance.

o Individuals with an out-of-state driver's license must be able to obtain a driver's license in the state of Texas within thirty (30) days.

· Successful completion of all position-specific training within thirty (30) days of employment and ongoing compliance with annual training requirements is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

· Skill in the operation of computers and in applicable computer software.

· Ability to collect and analyze data, to design therapeutic programs, to prepare and maintain records, and to communicate effectively.

· Ability to display regular and reliable (in-person, if required) attendance.

· Understanding and practice of Trauma Informed Care principles.

Essential Duties

The following list outlines key responsibilities for the position; however, it is not exhaustive and does not encompass all responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

1) Monitors the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Portal (TMHP) system and responds to all PASRR Evaluation alerts within 72 hours from the time of the alert.

2) Attends and participates in nursing facility initial IDT and Care Plan meetings along with the PASRR Case Manager or Habilitation Coordinator.

3) Enters and approves data in the TMHP portal within 7 calendar days of the initial evaluation alert.

4) Completes an initial review of Community Living Options with each IDD individual that receives a PASRR Evaluation.

5) Completes data entry of the initial Community Living Options review into CARE within 10 calendar days of the review.

6) Completes documentation of the PASRR Evaluation and related activities into the Center's Electronic Health Record within 2 business days of the service provided.

7) Maintains positive relationships with individuals, family members, service providers, Center employees, other agencies, and the community.

8) Completes all required documentation in accordance with Center policies and procedures, the HHSC contract, Medicaid requirements, the TAC, and applicable HHSC handbooks.

9) Works both independently and as part of a team.

10) Perform additional duties as deemed necessary by the department supervisor within designated timeframes.

11) Participates in the Center's Zero Suicide Initiative.

o Supports individuals experiencing a crisis by promptly connecting them with appropriate Center programs, such as the Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT), Psychiatric Triage, Crisis Prevention services, and/or other applicable resources. Ensure seamless coordination to facilitate timely intervention.

o Remains with individuals, when deemed safe, to provide support and maintain a calm environment until specialized crisis staff or emergency personnel arrive to take over intervention efforts. Adheres to safety protocols to prevent escalation of the crisis situation.

o Participates in debriefing sessions with the immediate supervisor or designated staff following a crisis event. Collaborate with the team to review the incident, identify lessons learned, and ensure all HHSC guidelines and Center policies are followed.