Behavioral Health Technician

Description JOB SUMMARY

The Integrated Behavioral Health Technician supports the delivery of whole-person care within a primary care and integrated behavioral health care setting. This role assists patients with screening, brief interventions, engagement in services, care coordination, health education, appointment support, and connection to Appalachian Mountain Health and community behavioral health resources. The Behavioral Health Tech works collaboratively with medical providers, behavioral health clinicians, care managers, and administrative staff to improve patient access, continuity of care, and overall patient experience.

Key accountabilities

• KEY ACCOUNTABILITY #1 Support integrated behavioral health and primary care teams in coordinating patient care Screen all patients for behavioral health and substance use disorders.
• Provide same day access to behavioral health services through collaborating with primary care and behavioral health care teammates.
• Assist patients with scheduling appointments, completing forms, and navigating services.
• Conduct outreach to patients regarding follow-up appointments, referrals, and care plan engagement.
• Participate in all Behavioral Health team meetings, care coordination meetings, clinic meetings, and staff-wide meetings.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA, privacy protections for psychotherapy, and 42 CFR, and organizational policies.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITY #2 Monitor patient risks and outcomes through tracking engagement and reviewing patient care risks. Monitor patient’s rate of engagement and necessary follow-up appointments, such as labs, and routine health screening. Collaborate with providers to support continuity of care and patient engagement. Track patient no-shows, and late cancellations and reach out to patient reconnect in care, collaborating with the Behavioral Health Referral Coordinator and the Behavioral Health Clinician.

• KEY ACCOUNTABILITY #3 Support Crisis response through readiness to respond with knowledge of Crisis Interventions, risk assessments, and safety planning protocols.
• Assist with patient de-escalation using trauma-informed and person-centered communication techniques.
• Remain with patients experiencing emotional or behavioral distress until appropriate clinical support is available.
• Utilize crisis risk assessments, including the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale.