Benefits Coordinator

About the role

Western State Hospital, part of the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), is seeking a full-time Benefits Coordinator for the Social Work Department. The position evaluates patients' needs and eligibility for financial benefits, assists with benefits applications, and educates staff and patients regarding entitlement programs.

Responsibilities

• Review the status of incoming patients to determine eligibility for SSDI and SSI benefits
• Receive referrals for patients needing Social Security benefits
• Promptly notify SSA of patients whose benefits should be suspended due to specific legal codes
• Maintain information files and Social Work Money Sheets about entitlements for WSH patients
• Investigate questions from SSA staff, WSH social workers, DDS determiners, and Reimbursement Division representatives to obtain necessary information for assessments, reinstatements, applications, and appeals
• Provide education to staff, patients, families, and CSB staff regarding financial entitlements per individual request, through PSR groups, and in Team meetings
• Complete 10 hours of continuing education yearly (CME’s or other formal training, workshops)

Requirements

• A minimum of an Associate’s degree in a social services/human services field
• Professional work experience with adults with serious mental illness and/or other disabilities
• Experience with determining clients' eligibility for federal benefits and assisting with the processes necessary to access these financial services

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree is preferred
• Experience with the use of Electronic Health Record systems
• Ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, and other computer programs to determine eligibility
• Veteran and veteran spouse status
• Bilingual proficiency

Skills

• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Knowledge of federal and state benefit programs
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks

Benefits

• Health, vision, and dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Sick time
• Family/personal time
• Retailer with cash match

Pay

Starting at $49,875 (commensurate based on experience)

Schedule

Full-Time (Salaried)