Intake Specialist

UNITED COMMUNITY CENTER•Milwaukee, WI

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Intake Specialist is the first point of contact for individuals seeking services at our substance use disorder (SUD) treatment center. This role is responsible for conducting comprehensive initial assessments, gathering necessary client information, and facilitating a smooth and compassionate intake process. The Intake Specialist plays a crucial role in engaging new clients, building trust, and ensuring a seamless transition into treatment. Position Type: Full-Time/Regular

Requirements

Eligibility for State licensing (SAC) is preferred.
A bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related human services field is preferred. A combination of relevant education and experience will be considered.
Bilingual fluency in Spanish and English is required.
One year of experience in the field of Substance Use and/or Mental Health is preferred but not required.
Good organizational skills, able to communicate well both orally and in writing.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport quickly.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Proficiency in using electronic health record (EHR) systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
Knowledge of substance use disorders, recovery principles, and client confidentiality (HIPAA) regulations
Compassionate, patient, and able to work with individuals in crisis.
Ability to handle sensitive information with the utmost discretion.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Complete intakes for individual support and placement for substance use treatment/ resources in English and Spanish as mandated by the licensing agency.
Conducts phone screening to assess for appropriateness for residential admissions
Explain program services, answer questions, and explain treatment expectations in a clear and understandable manner.
Gather information, including ASAM criteria, to determine the most appropriate level of care in accordance with all state and federal regulations, as well as agency policy and procedures, and schedule for residential intake.
Monitor and maintain the client waitlist to fill all residential beds as needed.
Staff clients with the team as needed for coordination.
Contact referral sources and other service providers for additional information, as well as follow up with the internal team to facilitate a smooth admission and treatment episode.
Complete by preparing and submitting the initial prior authorization upon client admission to residential
Prepare and process all intake paperwork efficiently and accurately, including admission agreement, client rights, and confidentiality policies
Complete the biopsychosocial and treatment plan for new intakes and transfers
Prepare and submit extension justification for clients requiring continued coverage.
Track approval status and follow up with staff to obtain any additional information needed if a justification is returned or delayed.
Submit prior authorization for transfer and complete discharge summary
Submit room and board request in Provider Connect NX after authorization from Medicaid (initial and/or extension) is received.
Track clients' lapse dates.
Send discharge e-mails and transfer e-mails.
Maintain and e-mail weekly staffing list for extensions.
Obtain relevant information for extension during clinical staffing
Keep the ASAM score spread teams sheet up to date.
Communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams within the United Community Center, Human Services Department, and with outside agencies.
Refers clients and/or guardians/families to other community resources when appropriate, if the client is ineligible for funding, working with the client on alternatives for treatment.
Collect data as necessary for funding sources.
Coordinate and maintain close contact with detox facilities, jails, drug courts, and other referral sources.
Maintain organized and confidential client files in compliance with HIPAA and all state and federal regulations.
Track and report on intake metrics, including the number of inquiries, admissions, and referrals.
Provide care that is trauma-informed and based on an individualized approach.
Support the goals of the agency’s mission.
Other duties as assigned by supervisor