Veteran Directed Care (VDC) Options Counselor (OC)

The VDC OC will provide person-centered options counseling services to veterans enrolled in the program, which serves eligible veterans of any age who are at risk of nursing home placement. The VDC OC works with the participants/caregivers to assess, identify, coordinate, and monitor supports/services on an ongoing basis. Duties include educating participants/caregivers about the program, serving as an advocate and coach, and working with participants/caregivers to identify needs and create and monitor an individualized care/spending plan that addresses the needs. The VDC OC monitors all VDC spending along with the participants/caregivers, the Financial Management Service (FMS) provider, and the Veterans Administration Medical Center where the person is seen. Much of the work is field based with frequent travel to participant’s homes throughout Senior Services’ service area. Opportunity for hybrid office/remote schedule. Reports directly to the VDC Program Manager.

TYPICAL TASKS:

· Initial Assessments of referrals to include the Uniform Assessment Instrument and additional forms required

· Work with participants/caregivers to identify needs and preferences for services, and creating a spending plan for services that meet the identified needs

· Assist the participant/caregiver with completing the paperwork necessary to become an employer, and facilitate new-hire appointments for the participant/caregiver

· Provide training and remediation as necessary related to employer responsibilities

· Conduct monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual required contacts, and reassessments as needed based on changing life circumstances

· Follow-up on referrals and service implementation

· Maintains, updates, and monitors participant’s confidential information, services, and file notes in electronic database program

· Performs fiscal duties as required under the VDC, maintaining accurate records of expenditures and schedules, and completing reports as required

· Plans, prioritizes, and schedules work activities according to urgency of situation, workload, and applicable deadlines

· Collaborates with other agencies, health care providers, and community resources to facilitate any additional referrals needed, as well as to build and maintain professional relationships

· Educates the public through meetings and professional presentations

· Performs other related duties as assigned.

· Knowledge of the disability and/or aging services systems; consumer-directed services and supports; Medicaid, Medicare, and other benefits

· Knowledge of a wide variety of community resources, supports, and services

· Skill in empowering, encouraging, and guiding clients and/or caregivers

· Skill in active listening, interviewing, and assessing needs

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills, public speaking skills a plus

· Knowledge of HIPPA regulations and ethical standards

· Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and use of web-based software programs

· Excellent organizational and planning skills to efficiently manage time and meet deadlines

· Ability to be flexible and adapt to change

· Ability to practice good professional judgment and work independently

· Ability to establish and maintain trusting relationships with participants and caregivers or other identified individuals in all circumstances, and interact and work well with other agency departments

· Ability to form rapport with other professionals, clients, and caregivers.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

· Hybrid office/remote after mandatory training completed, with much of work being field based in the veteran’s homes. Requires regular independent travel throughout Hampton Roads, including the western tidewater region .

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

· Requires a bachelor’s degree in social work or related field, or RN, with experience in community-based services working with older adults and/or persons with disabilities, especially with those who are veterans

· Must possess a valid driver’s license, auto insurance, good driving record, and acceptable criminal background check.

Disclaimer: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. From time to time, the supervisor will ask job holder to perform additional duties related to the completion of the work.