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Centerstone of Illinois, Inc.
School Based Navigator
Career Insights for Eligibility Specialist
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Based on Illinois data
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What they do
An Eligibility Specialist provides assistance and information for people who apply for a government benefits program or health care program. Answers questions, assists with an application process, and reviews applications and relevant background information to determine eligibility. May assist eligible applicants with enrolling in a program.
$48,103 / year median in Illinois
+17% projected growth
Job Description
Centerstone is among the nation's leading nonprofit behavioral health systems with thousands of employees dedicated to delivering care that changes people's lives. A dynamic, well-established organization, we offer rewarding opportunities to serve all ages in a variety of settings. Come talk to us about joining the Centerstone team!
JOB DESCRIPTION
SUMMARYOF POSITION
The School Based Navigator (SBN) serves as a critical liaison among schools, families, and the organization. This role facilitates access to behavioral health services for students, supports the intake and insurance process, and promotes service continuity through collaboration with internal teams and community partners. The SBN ensures that all activities are conducted in alignment with regulatory standards, person-centered practices, and the organization's mission.ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Receive and Process Referrals Accept and respond to student referrals from assigned schools within three business days, initiating family contact and documentation. Insurance and Funding Support Assist families in Medicaid eligibility screening and application; verify private insurance benefits and screen for alternative funding as needed. Coordinate Service Entry Schedule intake appointments with school-based therapists or refer to appropriate access points if a student is not eligible for school-based services. Manage Intake Documentation Ensure completion, accuracy, and proper electronic filing of all intake and compliance documentation per operational standards. Support Compliance Tasks Collaborate with teams such as Billing, Health Information Management (HIM), and Quality to complete non-billable regulatory tasks and timelines. Provide Administrative Support Answer incoming calls, make and document non-billable calls on behalf of school-based staff, and maintain accurate clinical records. Maintain Service Continuity Conduct ongoing insurance checks and support paperwork updates to maintain eligibility and access to care throughout treatment. Resource and Crisis Linkage Partners with schools and community agencies to connect families with appropriate support, including crisis services when indicated. Adhere to Ethical and Privacy Standards Follow organization's privacy, confidentiality, and security policies always and practice within professional ethics, when applicable. Support Program Operations Function within Organization's Operational Guidelines and contribute to program quality through routine self-evaluation and adherence to CARF-aligned standards. Engage in Professional Development Participate in required training, team meetings, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service quality and coordination.KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Effectively communicate via written, verbal, in person and virtual methods. Understanding of mental health systems and school-based service models.- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
- Proficiency in documentation, electronic records, and telephonic engagement.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education Level Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related human services field required. Four years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the degree. Years of Experience Certification/Licensure Employment Requirements Successful completion of background check including criminal record, driving record, abuse/neglect, and fingerprint check.- Completion of New Hire Orientation at the beginning of employment.
- All training requirements including Relias at the beginning of employment and annually thereafter.
- Current driver's license, acceptable driving record and current auto insurance.