Assessment and Referral Specialist

Position Summary

Upon completion of orientation and under general supervision, Assessment & Referral Specialist performs assessments at SBH as well as outside the facilities, depending on the needs of the patient or hospital, screens admissions for clinical and medical appropriateness and communicates this information to a physician for determination of admissions and level of care direction. Works closely with business office, nursing and clinical staff as well as external parties to ensure the timely admission of patients.

Education / Licensure:

Position requires successful completion of a master’s degree from an accredited college or university in social work, psychology, mental health or a related field or RN. LPCC, LMFT, or LMSW preferred. A minimum of two years in a psychiatric or mental health setting desirable. Must have a valid State driver’s license.

Candidate will possess a valid current registered nursing license from the State Board of Nursing or from a nurse compact state, where applicable.

Skills:

1) Comprehensive understanding of the behavioral healthcare industry and experience in clinical interviewing, patient assessment, family dynamics, treatment modalities and planning and admission requirements using the established hospital criteria. 2) Thorough knowledge of TJC, CMS, third party payors, managed care organizations and state and federal regulatory standards/requirements. 3) Ability to communicate professionally and effectively, orally, in person, and in writing, with multidisciplinary team members, managed care organizations and business office, providing needed information in a logical, concise manner using technical language that accurately describes patient’s condition and need for hospitalization. 4) Ability to organize and prioritize workload to meet deadlines, orchestrate a myriad of activities and to manage multiple priorities within complex and changing systems; 5) Able to self-regulate and facilitate helpful management dynamics during stressful situations.

Additional Requirements:

Timely renew and maintain cardiopulmonary resuscitation for healthcare professionals certification, professional skills verification and psychiatric crisis management certification. If candidate is a registered nurse, timely renew and maintain an active registered nursing license in the State.

Must have reliable transportation and be able to retain automobile liability insurance at the minimum level required by state law. Must have thorough knowledge of how to access local resources, State commitment laws and the State Mental Health Code.