Central Intake Specialist

Reports To: Central Intake Supervisor

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Notice: 2 Weeks

Grade: 3

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.
• Schedule and assigned duties are subject to change based on the needs of the program and the clients we serve.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• 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.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate degree in social work, psychology or closely related human services field, plus experience working with central intake or psychiatric triage.

OR

• Two years of full-time paid experience in a related mental health, substance abuse or social service agency, with experience with third party payers.