Senior Behavioral Health Referrals Associate

University of Texas at Austin•Austin, TX

10d•$48,000•Hybrid

About The Position

This is a state-funded position sponsored by the Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium (TCMHCC). TCMHCC was created by the 86th Texas Legislature to leverage the expertise and capacity of the health-related institutions of higher education to address urgent mental health challenges and improve the mental health care system in this state in relation to children, adolescents, and perinatal women. The University of Texas Dell Medical School is a Health Related Institution (HRI) for the TCMHCC. The Senior Behavioral Health Referrals Associate will work as part of the External Relations and Education Team that supports all Dell Medical School Texas Child Mental Health programs, including the Perinatal Psychiatry Access Network (PeriPAN) and Child Psychiatry Access Network (CPAN), Texas Child Health Access Through Telemedicine (TCHATT), Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM), and other related mental health programs. CPAN and PeriPAN provide primary care clinic providers and OBGYNs prompt access to on-call psychiatrists to provide expertise in assessment, treatment, and referrals for pediatric and/or perinatal patients identified as having a mental health challenge. TCHATT provides telemedicine or telehealth programs to school districts to help identify and assess the behavioral health needs of children and adolescents and provide access to mental health services. YAM is a school-based program for students in eighth through 12th grades to learn about and explore the topic of mental health. This position has an end date of 8/31/2026, but may be renewable based upon availability of funding, work performance, and progress toward goals. Funding is expected to continue. A flexible working arrangement agreement can be accommodated based upon the needs of the program and with supervisor approval. This position may require occasional work on-site for some of the scheduled work week. Remote work will require reliable internet access and a suitable private workspace free from distractions. The Senior Behavioral Health Referrals Associate will coordinate referrals for the Texas Child Mental Health Clinical Programs and other Texas Child Mental Health programs. The ideal candidate will have the ability to interact with peers, patients’ families, and other program partners in a manner that represents the Dell Medical School positively. Sound judgment in decision-making and prioritizing tasks. Ability to maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance. Demonstrated ability to be flexible and adaptable to change. Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities. Resourcefulness in problem solving. Demonstrated initiative when faced with complexity. Flexible and positive attitude.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in social work, counseling, or a related field and three (3) year of related experience.
Ability to communicate with others in a clear, understandable, and professional manner on the phone and in person.
Excellent communication skills.
Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Nice To Haves

One (1) year of professional experience in care coordination or case management.
Proficient PC skills with emphasis on Excel.
Health plan or provider order entry experience.
Knowledge of medical and mental health terminology and/or medical coding.
Spanish fluency.

Responsibilities

Use assembled information concerning a patient's clinical background and determine the best referral(s).
Work on the referrals team using an interprofessional model including pediatric psychiatrists, psychologists, other licensed mental health professionals, and administrative staff.
Manage and track patient referrals, ensuring all records are provided promptly and accurately.
Use the Electronic Medical Record to communicate referral information to team members, patients, families, and school staff, ensuring accuracy of all assigned records.
Answer provider inquiries regarding the referral process and provide necessary information and support.
Follow up with providers and care coordinators to support patients and families to resolve any issues or delays in the referral process.
Maintain updated records of referrals, ensuring all data is accurately documented.
Engage in community outreach to expand and enhance a database of community providers who accept referrals from the TCHATT, CPAN, and PeriPAN programs.
Conduct searches for referral resources for traditionally marginalized populations.
Contribute to and maintain a list of needed referrals.
Other duties as assigned.