Job Opportunity: Community Access Specialist
Program: Supports for Community Living Division
Location: London/Corbin and Richmond/Lexington
Reports To: Executive Director or Designee
Job Summary:
The Community Access Specialist supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities participating in the Kentucky Supports for Community Living (SCL) waiver program, in accordance with the Kentucky Administrative Regulation (KAR) 907 KAR 12:010. This position is responsible for assisting individuals in accessing community resources, services, and activities that promote independence, inclusion, and meaningful community engagement.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Community Integration and Advocacy:
• Assist individuals in identifying and participating in community activities, services, and opportunities that align with their personal goals and interests.
• Promote inclusion by advocating for reasonable accommodations and modifications to ensure equal access to community resources and services.
• Develop relationships with community organizations, employers, and other service providers to create opportunities for the individuals served.
• Ensure that services are provided in natural community settings, as defined by 907 KAR 12:010, Section 2.
2. Person-Centered Planning:
• Collaborate with individuals, their families, and their support teams to create and implement individualized service plans (ISPs) that reflect the person’s goals for community involvement.
• Facilitate skill development in areas that enhance the individual’s ability to live more independently and participate fully in community life.
3. Service Documentation and Compliance:
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of services provided in accordance with Medicaid and SCL waiver program requirements, including 907 KAR 1:145, which governs record-keeping and compliance.
• Participate in audits, reviews, and quality improvement initiatives to ensure adherence to state regulations and program guidelines.
• Ensure services provided are in line with 907 KAR 12:010, which outlines service definitions and provider qualifications.
4. Collaboration and Teamwork:
• Work collaboratively with case managers, direct support professionals, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, as needed, to discuss service progress, address barriers, and update individualized service plans.
• Provide training and support to individuals and their support teams on accessing and navigating community resources.
5. Resource Coordination:
• Assist in identifying community resources, including educational, employment, recreational, and social opportunities, that meet the individual’s needs and preferences.
• Coordinate transportation and other logistical needs to support community participation.
• Facilitate access to additional waiver services, as appropriate, ensuring compliance with 907 KAR 12:010.
Qualifications:
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Knowledge of Medicaid waiver programs, specifically the SCL waiver, is preferred.
• Certifications: CPR/First Aid certification is required. Completion of relevant SCL waiver training is required within the first 90 days of employment.
• Skills:
• Strong understanding of community resources and service systems within Kentucky.
• Ability to work effectively within a person-centered framework.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and advocacy skills.
• Familiarity with Kentucky Administrative Regulations related to Medicaid, particularly 907 KAR 12:010.
Work Conditions:
• The position requires frequent travel within the community, including home visits, attending community activities, and networking with local resources.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, to support individuals’ community participation as needed.
References:
• Kentucky Administrative Regulations (KAR), including but not limited to:
• 907 KAR 12:010 – Supports for Community Living Waiver: Service Definitions and Provider Qualifications
• 907 KAR 1:145 – Medicaid Services: Record-Keeping and Documentation Requirements
This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and is not an exhaustive list of duties or requirements.