Medical Appointment Liaison at Opengate, Inc. – Somers, New York

The Medical Appointment Liaison assists people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with medical, dental, and clinical appointments by transporting people safely, supporting them throughout the appointment process, and ensuring that medical documentation and follow-up needs are accurately communicated. This position works in close collaboration with the Medical Appointment Coordinator, who oversees appointment scheduling and coordination. When the medical appointment schedule allows, the Medical Appointment Liaison may be assigned general DSP duties to support program needs and maintain continuity of care

This position is located at our Somers, NY facility and has a base schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Essential Job Functions

• Work closely with the Medical Appointment Coordinator, ensuring that all relevant information and documentation are prepared in advance for appointments including consult sheets, medical records, identification, insurance, etc. documentation, and any other materials necessary for the visit.
• Transport people safely to and from scheduled appointments in agency vehicles in accordance with agency procedures and motor vehicle regulations, ensuring the safety, dignity, and comfort of each person supported.
• Assist people entering and exiting agency vehicles, following prescribed support guidelines and properly secure wheelchairs and mobility devices in accordance with agency training requirements.
• Facilitate that people are appropriately prepared for all appointments, including appropriate attire.
• Serve as a liaison during medical appointments by clearly communicating relevant information to practitioners regarding the person's baseline status, support needs, and reason for the visit
• Obtain all provider documentation, prescriptions, written orders, and follow-up instructions before leaving the office.
• Upon return, relay all medical updates, provider instructions, and follow-up requirements to the nursing department, ensuring prompt and accurate communication.
• Maintain transportation logs, appointment documentation, and communication records in a complete, neat, and timely manner in accordance with agency expectations and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct and document routine vehicle safety checks, maintain vehicle cleanliness, refuel agency vehicles as needed, and promptly report any mechanical issues, safety concerns, or incidents to their immediate supervisor.
• Provide supportive presence and reassurance during medical appointments, assist people with communication as needed, and encourage self-advocacy and participation in their healthcare when appropriate.
• When medical appointment assignments allow, perform general DSP duties to support program needs. These may include assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), supporting recreational or community activities, engaging in household routines, and implementing behavior and person-centered plans as directed by the supervisor.
• Maintain positive, respectful, and professional relationships with people supported, families, coworkers, medical providers, and external stakeholders, ensuring a safe and supportive environment at all times.
• Attend required trainings, program meetings, and in-services; remain current with all OPWDD and agency-mandated certifications including CPR/First Aid, SCIP-R, AMAP (if applicable), and all required annual recertifications.
• Adhere to all federal, state, local, and agency guidelines related to the health, safety, and welfare of people supported; identify and report safety concerns, unusual incidents, or suspected abuse or neglect immediately in accordance with agency policy.
• Cooperate fully with agency, OPWDD, Justice Center, and other regulatory investigations or audits, including providing verbal and written statements when requested.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned in accordance with program needs and agency policies.

Qualifications

• Must have valid Driver's License to drive in New York State.
• Must have a High School diploma or GED equivalent.
• One year experience with working with an OPWDD population is preferred.
• Must successfully complete CPR, First Aid, and SCIP-R training.
• Must successfully complete OPWDD Medication Certification Course at the discretion of the Department Head,

Physical Requirements

• This position is a non-sedentary role; requires a lot of time standing and walking.
• Able to lift 50 or more pounds. The ability to turn, lift and assist individuals with movement.

Why work for us?

• PAID training to help you succeed and grow in your role.
• Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance.
• Eligible to enroll in 401k after six months of employment
• Employer-paid vision and dental premiums to keep you covered.
• Tuition reimbursement for your personal and professional development
• Generous paid time-off to maintain your work-life balance
• A supportive, dynamic team environment where your contributions are valued and celebrated

$19.25 - $20.25 hourly. Compensation will be commensurate with job qualifications and work experience.

Opengate is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally-recognized basis including, but not limited to: veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, domestic or civil union partnership status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, transgender status, predisposing genetic characteristics, familial status, education, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law. The Company promotes inclusion and acceptance of all protected classes.

In order to promote and maintain a community culture, employees hired to work at Opengate must legally reside and perform their work in the state of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, or Pennsylvania.