7-16-83 B

Investigates and evaluates the ability of clients of state Mental Health Mental Retardation facilities to pay for services to be provided, or to settle delinquent accounts.

Reports to a Mental Health Reimbursement Senior Representative in a regional reimbursement office.

Interviews patients, families and responsible parties to obtain financial data. Evaluates income from real and personal property sources. Advises clients on third party fund sources such as insurance carriers, social security programs, and the like. Enters into contractual agreements with responsible parties for payment of care and treatment charges. Confers with representatives of federal and state agencies, insurance, and retirement organizations to determine patient eligibility for benefits.

Prepares cases for court referral. Attends court as an agency agent or witness to compel payment of patient charges. Coordinates financial arrangements with the accounts receivable section. Attends meetings with other reimbursement personnel to review and recommend changes in reimbursement programs.

Knowledge of hospital accounting practices. Ability to deal with clients, families, attorneys and others in sensitive personal matters. Ability to analyze personal financial situations. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to travel.

Graduation from high school, with post secondary education preferred. Experience related to the duties of the position, especially in accounts collection work. Training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for post secondary education.