Wellness Coordinator

About the Role and Company

Optum is a worldwide organization dedicated to enhancing health outcomes through technology-driven care, assisting millions in living healthier lives. Joining Optum means being part of a diverse and inclusive culture with talented colleagues, comprehensive benefits, and growth opportunities, all aimed at advancing health equity globally.

Role Overview

The Wellness Coordinator position is non-clinical and focuses on care coordination and administrative support for providers addressing behavioral health and substance abuse challenges. You will assist the Behavioral Health Case Management department with referral assignments, chart summaries, and member demographics verification. This role requires working remotely within the U.S., adhering to Eastern Standard Time work hours.

Work Schedule and Location

The position requires a 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm EST. The job is fully remote but mandates availability during these hours and access to a suitable quiet workspace to securely manage Protected Health Information (PHI).

Primary Duties

• Manage inbound calls in a provider call queue
• Collect and document data from providers using several electronic systems
• Communicate and coordinate relevant information to clinical teams
• Educate providers and members on behavioral health benefits
• Provide mental health and substance use treatment network referrals
• Perform additional assigned tasks as required

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum 2 years in managed care or call center environments
• At least 1 year of computer proficiency including Adobe and Microsoft Office
• Experience confidentially handling sensitive provider issues for 1+ years
• Capacity to work full-time during EST business hours
• Home workspace that is quiet, secure, and separate from other areas
• Residence with access to approved high-speed internet

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in casework at hospitals, social services, or mental health centers
• Background in medical or behavioral health settings, including managed care
• Knowledge of dual diagnosis involving mental health and substance abuse
• Skills in coordinating benefits and resource utilization for patients
• Familiarity with community-based resources and services
• Creative problem-solving with community resource utilization
• Initiative in meeting individual, team, and organizational objectives
• Bachelor's degree preferred, ideally in social work, psychology, or related field
• Understanding of New York State authorization processes

Soft Skills

• Adaptability, strong follow-through, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn
• Excellent oral and written communication, especially telephone skills
• Organizational and scheduling aptitude demonstrated in daily tasks
• Confidential handling of sensitive issues with professionalism
• Outstanding customer service and teamwork abilities
• Compliance with company Telecommuter Policy

Compensation and Benefits

Pay ranges from $18 to $32 per hour, dependent on factors such as location, education, experience, and certifications. Benefits include paid time off accruing from the first paycheck, eight paid holidays, medical plans with health spending or savings accounts, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase, education reimbursement, discounts, assistance programs, referral bonuses, and voluntary insurances like pet or legal coverage.

Additional Information

The company values diversity, equity, and environmental responsibility. Equal employment opportunities are guaranteed, regardless of race, gender, age, or other protected characteristics. Applicants with arrest or conviction records are considered. This role requires passing a drug test prior to employment.