Disability Application Specialist

Central Health•Austin, TX

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Disability Application Specialist receives and manages internal and external referrals for Medical Access Program (MAP/MAP Basic) members who may qualify for Social Security benefits. The role supports people experiencing or at imminent risk of homelessness who want to apply for federal disability benefits using the SOAR model, as well as housed and/or terminally ill individuals. The specialist reviews medical records, gathers information directly from members, and assesses eligibility for resources and programs. Members are served in their own settings, including homes, shelters, nursing homes, and hospitals; travel to the Social Security Administration is required as needed. The specialist ensures benefit applications are accurate and complete and advocates for members who may be unable to secure resources independently. The position works closely with medical providers, behavioral health specialists, case management teams, community partners, and the Social Security Administration. It may also assist members with MAP/MAP Basic renewals, urgent needs, and referrals to other resources. The role is hybrid, combining remote work and in-office presence. Candidates should be local or able to commute to the office as needed.

Requirements

High school diploma.
At least 1 year of experience, paid or internship, supporting individuals with applications for local, state, or federal benefits and/or community resources.
Obtain SOAR Certification within 3 months.
Experience and knowledge of public benefit applications and eligibility criteria.
Working knowledge of community agencies and resources.
Ability to work with a multidisciplinary team and community partners.
Ability to contribute to a positive team environment conducive to the patient experience.
Ability to organize workflow and use time efficiently.
Ability to handle detail and shift between competing priorities.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite programs effectively.
Knowledge of Travis County housing resources.
Local to the area or able to comfortably commute to the office as needed.

Responsibilities

Maintain a caseload of 25–45 clients pursuing federal disability benefits and support them throughout the process.
Provide direct support and case management to medically complex patients seeking federal and local benefits, including MAP/MAP Basic renewals while applying for Social Security benefits.
Coordinate with internal referral sources and external community partners to identify and refer MAP/MAP Basic members who may be eligible for SSI Medicaid.
Interview clients to gather information for SSI/SSDI applications using the SOAR model, as needed.
Obtain medical records and other required information, and write SOAR Medical Summary Reports for applications using the SOAR model.
Coordinate appointments with medical doctors, psychiatrists, and other specialists to obtain evidence supporting federal benefit applications.
Coordinate with members of clients’ healthcare teams to support overall well-being, address social and environmental issues, and promote emotional, social, and physical well-being and appropriate use of healthcare resources.
Attend agency staff meetings, trainings, functions, and activities when appropriate.
Participate in group work to maintain a professional work environment, staff cases, address program needs, and review community resources.
Determine health coverage and assist with enrollment in appropriate healthcare coverage.
Complete documentation in a timely manner.
Provide outreach as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.