Service Authorization Consultant

Service Authorization Consultant

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) is seeking a highly motivated individual to ensure that the DBHDS Developmental Disabilities waivers' service authorization system maintains all standards of accountability, proficiency and responsiveness to the users of the system which results in the alignment of needs and resources of all the individual's receiving waiver funded services. Incumbent will be responsible for the review of Individual Support Plans, Individual Service Packages, Planning Calendars, and Service Authorizations for the waivers for individuals with developmental disabilities, assuring that all criteria are met from when the process initiates with the case manager/support coordinator through to the authorization of a service. This includes, but is not limited to, discussing appropriate service alternatives with support coordinators/case managers and their supervisors to include the provision of needed training and technical assistance; problem solving to ensure individuals receive the appropriate services according to their assessed needs; and communicating the results of the review process to CSBs, private providers and the VA Medicaid Management Information System. This is a Richmond Central Office position and while there may be an opportunity for limited telework, which is currently one day per week, the expectation is that the selected candidate will be working in the DBHDS Central Office located at 1220 Bank Street, Richmond, VA 23219. This position may require frequent state travel. Additional responsibilities include:

• Performing clinical review and/or authorization of waiver and EPSDT services for individuals with developmental disabilities for all new and revised service plans, as appropriate.
• Utilizing knowledge of authorization procedures and interpretation of Medicaid regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Accurately entering service authorization information into the Waiver Management System (WaMS) & the Virginia Medicaid Enterprise System (MES).
• Providing service authorization related consultation and training to assigned Community Services Boards/private providers of case management services.
• Analyzing trends and problem areas within localities; providing recommendations and assistance to other DDS staff regarding technical support, training, and the development of guidance materials.
• Abiding by all legal and regulatory standards promulgated by state, federal and professional regulatory organizations and will engage in conduct that is professional and ethical at all times, to the best of my knowledge and understanding.

Minimum Qualifications

• Knowledge of professional standards of supports and services for individuals with developmental disabilities (DD), including knowledge of best practices.
• Knowledge of the health care needs of persons with disabilities (physical, cognitive, emotional), health and social service programs and issues, community resources, state and federal DD regulations, negotiation techniques, problem resolution, medical terminology, and medical standards of treatment.
• Ability to work with electronic information systems.
• Demonstrated ability to organize and prioritize work assignments, and to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to research and identify changes in program requirements and policies and to interpret state and federal regulations.
• Ability to use a range of computer programs and database applications such as Word, Excel, and the Internet.

Additional Considerations

• Bachelor's degree in a human services field (including, but not limited to, sociology, social work, special education, rehabilitation counseling, or psychology).
• Demonstrated training/professional experience in the delivery of services to individuals with DD.
• Experience in social, behavioral science, education, or related human services field.
• Understanding of best practices in developmental disability (DD) services or understanding of how best practices are adopted and ability to translate experiences and training within the DD system.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

For consideration, interested applicants must apply by completing the online application. A resume may also be included with your submission. This position is open until filled; however, applications/resumes will begin to be reviewed within seven (7) business days of the date of this posting. Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. DBHDS welcomes all applicants authorized to work in the U.S. For more information on how to seek this authorization, please refer to Working in the United States or contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office directly. For any technical assistance with the jobs.virginia.gov website, please contact applicantinquiry@dhrm.virginia.gov.

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer