Admission & Referral Specialist

SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC)•Sitka, AK

About The Position

This position requires a basic understanding of the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral health and substance use disorders. This position also requires crisis intervention skills and considerable knowledge for providing immediate mental health referral procedures. Effective telephonic, electronic, and in-person communication skills are necessary. This position is responsible for documentation of an applicant’s information. When appropriate to the qualifications of the incumbent, this position may also be responsible for initial assessment and diagnosis of the applicant. This position supports SEARHC’s vision statement: “To improve the health status of Native people in Southeast Alaska and other partners to the highest possible level,” by the provision of intake services to help individuals seeking to improve their health status by engaging in behavioral health treatment and/or reducing or stopping the abuse and/or dependence of alcohol and drugs. SEARHC is a non-profit health consortium which serves the health interests of the residents of Southeast Alaska. We see our employees as our strongest assets. It is our priority to further their development and our organization by aiding in their professional advancement. Working at SEARHC is more than a job, it’s a fulfilling career.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
If providing intake services for substance use disorder treatment, must have a current Chemical Dependency Counselor I certification by the State of Alaska OR in a state which has reciprocity with Alaska OR the ability to obtain this certification within two years of employment.
This certification requires specialized training and experience in chemical dependency
Valid State of Alaska Driver’s License or obtained within 6 months of hire
Basic Life Support
Three years’ full-time work experience in behavioral health and/or chemical dependency services, or related field.
Education may be substituted for some experience
Basic knowledge of behavioral health and/or substance use disorder treatment modalities
Basic knowledge of behavioral health disorders and substance use disorders and their effects on the human body, mind, and social relationships
Considerable knowledge of CFR 42 Part 2 and HIPAA regulations regarding client confidentiality and protected health information laws and practices
Proficient skill in oral and written communication
Proficient skill in maintaining accurate and detailed records
Strong skills with computers and various computer software programs including Microsoft Office Suite
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving skills
Proficient ability to prioritize and efficiently manage multiple assignments
Proficient ability to empathize with clients yet always maintain professional boundaries
Proficient ability to understand and follow agency’s policies and procedures
Must be at least 21 years of age

Responsibilities

Facilitates the completion of each application
Works with clinical and medical staff to determine appropriateness for the program.
Coordinates applicant interviews by telephone, video, or in person
Obtains confidential information from referral sources
Makes final recommendation to Admissions Team for acceptance.
Collaborates with the Clinical and Case Management team using the Twelve Core functions (screening; intake; orientation; assessment; treatment planning; counseling; case management; crisis intervention; client education; referral; reports and records keeping; and consultation) in working with the clients.
When coordinating admission for substance use disorder treatment, uses ASAM, DSM 5 or other placement criteria to determine suitability between applicant’s needs/strengths and program services.
Provides information about other treatment programs to persons not accepted at SEARHC.
Maintains waiting list.
Obtains demographic data and substance history in format to meet accreditation and grant requirements for reporting.
Presents confidential client information to residential staff to prepare them to work with incoming clients.
Communicates with applicants to let them know the status of their application.
Informs potential referrals of the intake process.
Processes admission inquiries for adolescent residential behavioral health and/or substance use disorder treatment programs.
Works closely with referral agents throughout the State of Alaska.
Initiates marketing strategies for the program.
Assists with coordinating travel arrangements to and from treatment for all applicants.
Initiates the billing process.
Attends scheduled staff trainings and required trainings.
Integrates new information and skills into delivery of intake services.
Other duties as assigned.