ADRC Disability Benefit Specialist I/II

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position provides detailed technical information, guidance, and assistance to persons with disabilities ages 18 to 59, 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 disabled consumers and consults with legal back-up as needed in administrative hearings and other formal or informal grievance steps. DBS casework and training is overseen by the attorneys of Disability Rights Wisconsin.
• Assists with obtaining and maintaining public programs and private health insurance benefits through office visits, home visits and community site visits. This includes assisting consumers with applying for Social Security Disability (SSDI/SSI). The application process takes 9 - 12 months.
• Determines case acceptance, handling and closing according to guidelines set by the state Disability 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. DBS position requires extensive initial training and at least 46 hrs/year of mandatory ongoing training. Completing and maintaining SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) certification.
• 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.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
 

• Work is performed primarily in an office setting.  On rare occasion, work may be performed in another location such as a residential facility, court, school, etc.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
 
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

ADRC Disability Benefits Specialist I
 

• 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.

ADRC Disability Benefits Specialist II
 

• Must meet all of the education and experience requirements of an ADRC Disability Benefits Specialist I, including obtainment of a SHIP Counselor certification.
• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience as an ADRC Disability Benefits Specialist I with St. Croix County or a similarly related role within another organization that performed ADRC duties. Experience must indicate mastery of professional knowledge about related services, programs, and resources and ability to meet program requirements and enhance the programs and services provided.