Admission Specialist

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for developing initial PCPs and Crisis Plans for all new admits. The Admission Specialist will work closely with the authorization/billing department to ensure the timely completion of all CCAs needed for initial authorization and reauthorization. Collaborates closely with clinical, billing, and administrative staff to meet organizational goals, including census targets, compliance standards, and quality assurance.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

- Coordinate admissions, conduct phone interviews, develop PCPs and Crisis Plans, sign Medicaid PCPs, manage census and capacity reporting, arrange room assignments, coordinate with maintenance, and complete discharge reviews.

- Complete CCAs for admissions and reauthorizations as needed.

- Screen clients for appropriateness for program entry and process referrals. Complete pre-assessments covering diagnosis, treatment history for substance use and mental health, target population, and justification for residential services.

- Coordinate with the Intake Specialist regarding prospective applicants.

- Review and reassess past residents for readmission into Hope Haven.

- Conduct admission screenings and determine appropriateness for services.

- Complete interviews and admission documentation.

- Coordinate admissions with referral sources and treatment staff.

- Develop and complete initial Person-Centered Plans (PCPs) for all new admissions.

- Ensure PCPs are completed within required timelines.

- Monitor compliance with SAIOP and SACOT service definitions and documentation requirements. Conduct chart audits and track treatment plan reviews, authorizations, and service requirements.

- Monitor bed availability, waitlists, and occupancy trends.

- Participate in quality improvement, utilization review, and audit preparation activities.

- Collaborate with clinical, nursing, residential, and administrative staff.

- Maintain compliance with agency policies, procedures, and standards, upholding organizational values and regulatory requirements.

- Perform other duties as assigned; responsibilities are not limited to those listed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

- May sit, stand, and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.

- Frequently uses a computer and standard office equipment.

- Occasionally lifts or moves materials weighing up to 20 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a professional environment with regular interaction with employees, clients, and other stakeholders.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of Hope Haven's pre-employment screening requirements, which may include background verification and other screening requirements applicable to the position and consistent with applicable law. This position may require operating a Hope Haven vehicle or transporting activity materials on an occasional or as-needed basis. When assigned driving duties, the employee must maintain a valid drivers license and be insurable under Hope Havens automobile insurance policy.

DISCLAIMER

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties and responsibilities may change based on organizational needs.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

- Currently licensed by NCSAPPB or certified by another state as an alcohol/drug counselor, or currently in the final stage of the certification process and able to become certified within one year of employment.

- Master's degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field required.

- Licensed Associate credential (LCAS, LCMHC, LCSW, or equivalent) strongly preferred.

- Minimum of two years of experience working with individuals with substance use disorders (SUD).

- Knowledge of ASAM Criteria, Person-Centered Planning, SAIOP, SACOT, and residential treatment services preferred.

- Working knowledge of counseling and resident-care principles and techniques, including the 12 core functions of counseling, especially screening, intake, orientation, assessment, and referral.

- If applicable, a minimum of two years of continuous sobriety and/or recovery from mood-altering drugs. Recovery from alcohol or other drugs must be maintained at all times, with active involvement in a recovery program.

- Complete and maintain all required Human Resources trainings according to state licensure requirements for Hope Haven.

- Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills.

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

- Knowledge of the dynamics of addiction and its treatment.

- Knowledge of confidentiality laws and a commitment to maintaining client confidentiality at all times.

- Adhere to all HIPAA and confidentiality rules and guidelines.

- Cause no harm to self or others on-site or off-site, including physical or psychological harm.

- Maintain a valid drivers license and meet Hope Havens insurance carrier requirements.