Elder Benefit Specialist
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position provides detailed technical information, guidance, and assistance to persons with disabilities ages 60 and over, related to individual eligibility for, and problems with, public benefits and services. The position advocates on behalf of its consumers when there are adverse decisions regarding public benefits including assisting with appeals. The position also provides education around public and private benefits. The goal of this position is for consumers to receive the benefits and services to which they are entitled.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. Other duties may be required and assigned.
• Offers information, assistance, and guidance related to individual eligibility for public benefits and services and to health care financing, insurance, housing and other financial problems and consumers concerns.
• Provides advocacy, guidance, and representation to consumers and consults with legal back-up as needed. EBS casework and training is overseen by the attorneys of the Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources, Inc.
• Assists with obtaining and maintaining public programs and private health insurance benefits through office visits, home visits and community site visits.
• Determines case acceptance, handling and closing according to guidelines set by the state Benefit Specialist Program.
• Maintains ethical and confidentiality standards derived from the Older American Act and Wisconsin Supreme Court Rules of Professional Responsibility governing the attorney conduct.
• Complies with daily and monthly federal and state reporting requirements; maintains detailed case files and records; generates reports including 100% time and task reporting.
• Maintains current and thorough knowledge regarding public benefits and entitlement services and their rules, regulations and requirements, by attending mandatory monthly trainings and tracking updates. EBS position requires extensive initial training, on-going bi-monthly training, as well as intermittent training as needed. SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) certification is required, which requires passing an exam.
• Ensures partners and volunteers are trained and informed on rules regarding confidentiality and conflict of interest.
• Undertakes outreach to educate older adults and adults with disabilities regarding Medicare and Medicaid options, other public assistance programs and Advanced Directives.
• Develops and distributes informational materials, brochures, and media releases; submits articles to newsletter; drafts various correspondence.
• Conducts research; develops advocacy letters for consumers receiving services.
• Surveys consumers regarding satisfaction, needs and suggestions for program improvements.
• Performing other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor’s degree in a health or human services related field.
• Three (3) years’ experience working with one or more of the client populations served by the ADRC.
• Experience working with Medicare, Medicaid, advocacy, Social Security and/or consumer rights desired.
• Must become a Certified SHIP Counselor within 18 months of hire.
• Appointment is conditional upon successful completion of a caregiver and criminal background check.
Posting Pay Range: $56,112 – $75,548
Posting Expected Pay Range: $56,112 – $62,877
Department: HHS-ADRC
FTE:1.0
Deadline Note:
