Disability Management Consultant

Southern Company•Gulfport, MS

22h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Disability Management Consultant is responsible for managing occupational and non‑occupational medical and disability-related matters through resolution in a manner that supports appropriate medical care while remaining timely, cost‑effective, and aligned with Safety First and Our Values. This role partners closely with Health & Medical Services team members, healthcare providers, third‑party administrators, management, Human Resources, Safety, and internal and external legal counsel to ensure consistent and compliant outcomes.

Requirements

Active Mississippi Registered Nurse (RN) license or an active license in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or a bachelor’s degree in a medical field as it relates to this position (required)
CCM, COHN, or CDMS certification (highly preferred)
Minimum of two years of case management or occupational/employee health experience (highly preferred)
Working knowledge of disability management practices, Mississippi Workers’ Compensation laws, FMLA regulations, Americans with Disability Act, 1973 Rehabilitation Act-Section 503, medical privacy regulations, Human Resources practices, OSHA regulations as they relate to physicals, medical records, recordkeeping and ergonomics
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including ability to communicate with confidence, credibility, and empathy
Strong customer service skills and ability to interact with employees of all job levels
Proficiency in recordkeeping and documentation practices
Ability to interpret and apply relevant policies and procedures
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
Efficient computer skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.) and ability to effectively move between multiple systems/programs to obtain & provide information
Well-organized with a focus on accuracy, thoroughness, and attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple projects and commitment to completing tasks timely
Ability to quickly adapt and adjust to constantly changing priorities
Ability to work easily in a team environment as well as ability and initiative to work independently
Available for and able to travel on short notice within the Company’s service territory, with possible overnight stays
Available outside of normal business hours as needed for on-call assistance
Demonstrates high ethical standards and behaviors consistent with Our Values and Principle Centered Leadership
Demonstrates a high level of professionalism and cooperation
Team-player who fosters an inclusive environment
Customer-focused and committed to success
Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability with a positive attitude
Welcomes feedback and applies it appropriately

Nice To Haves

CCM, COHN, or CDMS certification
Minimum of two years of case management or occupational/employee health experience

Responsibilities

Provide case management and related consultation for occupational and non-occupational injuries and illnesses, FMLA, Fitness for Duty (FFD) evaluations, ADA accommodation process, and Workers’ Compensation cases including removal from work, job duty restrictions, return to work clearance, disability leave of absence administration (DLOA) and long-term disability (LTD)
Provide high quality customer service and ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and company programs & policies governing FMLA, FFD, ADA, Workers’ Compensation, DLOA, LTD, OSHA, DOT, return to work clearance and HIPAA
Deliver training and presentations to supervisors on injury reporting, FMLA, FFD, ADA, DLOA, LTD, return to work clearance process, and other related topics as needed
Provide medical consultation for work-related injuries prior to transport to a care facility when appropriately feasible
Coordinate with Workers’ Compensation adjuster to include compensability determination, and nurse case management
Serve as liaison between employees, health care providers, and management for coordination of care needs and a safe return to work consistent with provider recommendations and employer policies while under the guidance of leadership as well as the Company’s Medical Director
Process pre-employment medical clearances
Provide support with the review process, revision and maintenance of essential job function (EJF) documents
Establish & maintain accurate and up-to-date records and documentation of all case management activity, decisions, and communications in accordance with HIPAA and company requirements
Serve as a trusted partner to all stakeholders and will be responsible for managing confidential and sensitive information
Respond to audits and inquiries as needed from internal & external legal counsel, MPC accounting department, Southern Company workers’ compensation insurance carriers, and the MS Workers’ Compensation Commission
Participate in the company’s storm preparedness process by attending planning meetings and procuring and maintaining supplies, as well as providing virtual and onsite medical support during disaster restoration efforts
Support MPC Health & Medical Services and MPC Human Resources initiatives, as well as support West Region and Southern Company Disability Management initiatives