OCOK Quality Improvement & Contracts Specialist

Description

Position Function: Works closely with the OCOK Director of Quality Improvement and Contracts to manage the Provider Network quality improvement process and compliance of prov
iders to the terms and outcomes of their contracts. This position is responsible for engaging and completing the contracting process for Residential and Purchased-Services Network Providers. Also responsible for ensuring that the quality of services is monitored and tracked, including out-of-home services, protective supervision, adoption-related services, independent living and purchased services. Assists in the development and implementation of performance and quality improvement plans, tracks results, monitors and reports the outcomes. Ensures contract compliance of provider network.  

Educational Requirements: A Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related degree required. Master’s preferred.

Experience Requirements: Two years of experience in a health, social service, or other organization that deals with contractual requirements, confidential information and/or wellbeing of clients. Child-placing agency experience given preference.

Functional Requirements:  The Quality Improvement and Contracts Specialist is responsible for managing the continuous quality improvement process within the provider network. Monitors contracts, standards, and regulations to ensure compliance. Conducts internal, external, and specialized program studies to measure program effectiveness. Reports findings and makes recommendation to supervisor to correct discrepancies or improve services. Coordinates outcome measurement data with provider network and recommends actions on areas not within compliance standards. Facilitates and coordinates trainings for the provider network.

Additional Functional Requirements:

· Participates in quality improvement activities to improve compliance, efficiency and effectiveness of service provision. 

· Assists in conducting internal quality reviews and makes recommendations.

· Collects, analyzes, tracks and presents data for performance reporting, on a regular basis to the Director.

· Demonstrates an ability to collaborate with the provider network and TDFPS management staff to optimize the quality of services delivered to children and families.

· Demonstrates excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to work cooperatively with youth, families, collaborating agencies, outside professionals and OCOK staff.

· Demonstrates good judgment and the ability to work independently.

· Demonstrates an ability to continue learning through supervision, continuing education, and experience.

· Must be able to handle a high degree of emotional stress related to client issues.

· Must have excellent writing skills and the ability to complete reports and documents in a timely manner.

· Must not have been convicted of a felony or criminal offense against a child.

Working Conditions: Position includes exposure to parents, guardians, and conservators as well as to youth with behavioral problems, including possible physical aggression. A personal vehicle is required for travel in and out of the contract region with overnight stay. Must possess a valid Texas driver’s license and have a driving record, which is within guidelines of the insurance underwriter.

Exposure to Confidential Information: The Quality Improvement and Contracts Specialist will have access to confidential records including personnel records, child/youth records, foster care and adoption records, and caregiver/foster parent information. Must maintain confidentiality and follow policies related to all of these records. 

Key Expectations/Responsibilities:

· Maintains high ethical standards which are outlined in the ACH Child and Family Services Code of Ethics.

· A commitment to empowering others to solve their problems.

· Value a nurturing family as the ideal environment for a person.

· A conviction about the capacity of people to grow and change.

· The ability to assist in the development of goals for the Quality Improvement and Contracts Department and implement strategies for achieving these goals.

· The ability to establish a respectful relationship with persons served to help them gain skills and confidence.

· The ability to work collaboratively with other personnel and/or service providers and profes