Medicaid Service Coordination is based on a “Person Centered Approach,” making consumer satisfaction a priority. They are chosen by the consumer and the advocate, and can be easily changed if there is a problem.
Service Coordinators ultimately develop, implement, and maintain an Individualized Service Plan (ISP) for every consumer on their caseload. They facilitate consumer meeting to discuss problems, concerns, and progress. Each ISP is tailored to each consumer’s individual needs and goals. They are required to make a home visit at least once a month, depending on the consumers needs, and is outlined in the ISP. In addition they must also keep a written record, including the required Medicaid Service Coordination documentation.
They will help consumers find needed services, answer questions, relieve concerns, and help with emergencies. The Service Coordinator helps negotiate and resolve any crisis situations a consumer may find themselves in. They are free from unnecessary influences, allowing for unbiased selection of services and making informed decisions on behalf of the consumer to achieve the valued outcome. The ultimate goal for service coordination is to promote self-advocacy, individuality, independence, inclusion, and productivity.
An important skill that all service coordinator’s must have is good communication skills: the ability to listen carefully to what people and families are saying, and correspond with individuals, families, advocates and providers verbally and in writing.
In order to assist the consumer with his or her needs, the Service Coordinator must have knowledge about services and supports, and accessing entitlements and benefits on the consumer’s behalf. The Service Coordinator is also responsible for recognizing and addressing health and safety issues for the consumer in all aspects of their life. They must also take steps to ensure the quality of the person’s living environment for the consumer’s health and safety.