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This position is located at the Mental Health Service Line, Acute Mental Health at the St. Cloud VA Health Care System. The Lead MSA resolves daily workplace issues and maintains efficient workflow and has responsibility for initiating and carrying out a variety of administrative duties associated with the patient record management and treatment on an Inpatient Psychiatric Unit and a Residential Treatment Program, as well as interface with the MH Outpatient Clinic.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
This announcement is open to the public and employees of other Federal agencies. Current, permanent VA employees should apply to announcement CBSY-12234623-24-GPA.
Videos
Duties
This occupation is eligible for Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP).
The incumbent develops new and uses established confidential and secure data management systems to assure accomplishment of facility mission and goals, including compilation of data for process review and quality monitoring. The incumbent maintains compliance with established guidelines regarding release of information with respect to all PHI and HIPAA regulations. The incumbent will demonstrate advanced skills in executing, coordinating, and communicating resolution of problems and outcomes regarding:
a. Arrangements to schedule/coordinate appointments for patients with referral staff, clinics, services, consultants, and other hospital clinics, including transportation.
b. Setting up, organizing, and maintaining record systems for admissions, transfers, and discharges. This includes advanced knowledge and skills needed to make changes in designation of primary provider and the VISTA Bed Control system in a timely manner.
c. Facilitation of communications with outside facilities, including information regarding placement and court proceedings (i.e., placing and accepting phone calls, confidential faxed information, and documents for commitment process). This includes guidance to other staff regarding commitment processes and examinations.
d. Coordination of appointments to ensure timeliness and avoid conflicts in meeting the needs of the patient and the schedule of the clinic services, consultants, etc., to which the patient is referred.
e. Update admissions, transfers, and discharges into the computerized data systems and patient record systems, maintaining the computerized data base used for tracking admissions, discharges, and follow-up appointments.
f. The incumbent will schedule or ensure outpatient clinic appointments are scheduled, all new admissions registered, demographics are verified and updated. Coordination of daily and follow-up appointments related to admissions/discharge/transfer, consults, lab work, imaging, etc., for smooth transitions in care into and out of the inpatient psychiatric setting, including coordination with case managers and care coordinators in the outpatient setting to assure continuity of care.
g. Communication skills sufficient to answer questions and problem-solving regarding appointments, admissions, transfers, and discharges, varying the information released appropriately to internal and external customers.
h. Closing out the medical record when patients are discharged; assure required forms are complete and signed by professional staff, notify various departments of the action, and make necessary arrangements for the transfer of patients to other hospitals or nursing homes. This includes requesting providers to document information needed when the information is not in the patient's computerized record, including completion of encounters.
i. Verify third party insurance and update information in the Insurance Capture Buffer (ICB) system.
j. Provides leadership and support for use of the computer contingency plans.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:30am-4pm
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
Qualifications
BASIC REQUIREMENTS.
a. Citizenship. Citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Chapter 3, Section A, paragraph 3.g.).
b. Experience and Education.
(1) Experience. Six months experience of clerical, office, customer service, or other administrative work that indicates the ability to acquire the particular knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties of the position; OR,
(2) Education. One year above high school; OR,
(3) Experience/Education Combination. Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable.
c. Certification. None required.
d. Grandfathering Provision. May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Lead Medical Support Assistant, GS-7
1. Experience
One year of experience equivalent to the GS-6 grade level, Examples of experience may include:
AND
2. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Candidates must demonstrate all of the KSAs below:
Assignment: The Lead MSA is responsible for the coordination of Advanced MSA assignments and workflow found in an interdisciplinary unit. The Lead MSA is responsible for daily workload assessments, assigning work, and assuring proper staffing coverage; evaluating training records; and determining training needs of MSAs to provide support across interdisciplinary settings. The Lead assists the unit with complex and non-standard procedures, including clinical flow processes related to access to care across multiple clinics, specialties, and/or community resources. Assignments at this level include, but are not limited to: ensuring accurate and timely scheduling of appointments; providing guidance to staff members, to include changes in policies and procedures; creating and maintaining employee work schedules; and acting as a liaison among Advanced MSA staff, patients, and other interdisciplinary staff to resolve day-to-day conflicts.
Physical Requirements: You will be asked to participate in a pre-employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre-employment process for this position. Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.
References: VA Handbook 5005/117, PART II, APPENDIX G45
Education
No education substitution for this level.
Additional information
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
How You Will Be Evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in t...
This position is located at the Mental Health Service Line, Acute Mental Health at the St. Cloud VA Health Care System. The Lead MSA resolves daily workplace issues and maintains efficient workflow and has responsibility for initiating and carrying out a variety of administrative duties associated with the patient record management and treatment on an Inpatient Psychiatric Unit and a Residential Treatment Program, as well as interface with the MH Outpatient Clinic.
This job is open to
- The public
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
Clarification from the agency
This announcement is open to the public and employees of other Federal agencies. Current, permanent VA employees should apply to announcement CBSY-12234623-24-GPA.
Videos
Duties
This occupation is eligible for Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP).
The incumbent develops new and uses established confidential and secure data management systems to assure accomplishment of facility mission and goals, including compilation of data for process review and quality monitoring. The incumbent maintains compliance with established guidelines regarding release of information with respect to all PHI and HIPAA regulations. The incumbent will demonstrate advanced skills in executing, coordinating, and communicating resolution of problems and outcomes regarding:
a. Arrangements to schedule/coordinate appointments for patients with referral staff, clinics, services, consultants, and other hospital clinics, including transportation.
b. Setting up, organizing, and maintaining record systems for admissions, transfers, and discharges. This includes advanced knowledge and skills needed to make changes in designation of primary provider and the VISTA Bed Control system in a timely manner.
c. Facilitation of communications with outside facilities, including information regarding placement and court proceedings (i.e., placing and accepting phone calls, confidential faxed information, and documents for commitment process). This includes guidance to other staff regarding commitment processes and examinations.
d. Coordination of appointments to ensure timeliness and avoid conflicts in meeting the needs of the patient and the schedule of the clinic services, consultants, etc., to which the patient is referred.
e. Update admissions, transfers, and discharges into the computerized data systems and patient record systems, maintaining the computerized data base used for tracking admissions, discharges, and follow-up appointments.
f. The incumbent will schedule or ensure outpatient clinic appointments are scheduled, all new admissions registered, demographics are verified and updated. Coordination of daily and follow-up appointments related to admissions/discharge/transfer, consults, lab work, imaging, etc., for smooth transitions in care into and out of the inpatient psychiatric setting, including coordination with case managers and care coordinators in the outpatient setting to assure continuity of care.
g. Communication skills sufficient to answer questions and problem-solving regarding appointments, admissions, transfers, and discharges, varying the information released appropriately to internal and external customers.
h. Closing out the medical record when patients are discharged; assure required forms are complete and signed by professional staff, notify various departments of the action, and make necessary arrangements for the transfer of patients to other hospitals or nursing homes. This includes requesting providers to document information needed when the information is not in the patient's computerized record, including completion of encounters.
i. Verify third party insurance and update information in the Insurance Capture Buffer (ICB) system.
j. Provides leadership and support for use of the computer contingency plans.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:30am-4pm
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- You may be required to serve a probationary period.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
- Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.
Qualifications
BASIC REQUIREMENTS.
a. Citizenship. Citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Chapter 3, Section A, paragraph 3.g.).
b. Experience and Education.
(1) Experience. Six months experience of clerical, office, customer service, or other administrative work that indicates the ability to acquire the particular knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties of the position; OR,
(2) Education. One year above high school; OR,
(3) Experience/Education Combination. Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable.
c. Certification. None required.
d. Grandfathering Provision. May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Lead Medical Support Assistant, GS-7
1. Experience
One year of experience equivalent to the GS-6 grade level, Examples of experience may include:
- Collaborate and communicate with a wide range of medical clinicians across multiple disciplines (e.g. medical doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, clinical pharmacists, and nursing staff) to accomplish team goal setting to ensure medical care to patients is met
- Independently set priorities and organize work to meet deadlines, ensuring compliance with established procedures, policies and regulations;
- Communicate tactfully and effectively, electronically, by phone, and in writing, with internal and external customers This may include preparing reports in various formats and presenting data to various organizational levels, as well as resolving patient concerns
- Acquired advanced knowledge of the technical health care process (including, but not limited to, scheduling across interdisciplinary coordinated care delivery and/or care in the community models and patient health care portals) as it relates to access to care.
- Acquired advanced knowledge of polices and procedures associated with interdisciplinary coordinated care delivery and/or care in the community operational activities that affect patient flow, and patient support care administrative functions to include, but not limited to appointment cycles, outside patient referrals, follow-up care, overbooking, provider availability etc.
- Acquired advanced knowledge of medical terminology due to the technical nature of language utilized by clinicians.
AND
2. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Candidates must demonstrate all of the KSAs below:
- Advanced knowledge of medical terminology and a wide range of clinical flow processes relating to access to care across multiple clinics, specialties, and/or community resources.
- Ability to utilize numerous advanced patient systems in support of multiple clinics in an interdisciplinary setting.
- Ability to organize work, set priorities, and delegate tasks/responsibilities in order to meet deadlines.
- Skill in communicating with individuals to obtain the desired effect (and coordinating with a variety of interdisciplinary care team staff).
- Ability to provide staff development and training.
- Ability to manage staffing requirements, manage workflow priorities, and adjust the flow of work to meet team and patient needs. This includes the ability to follow-up on pending issues and demonstrate an understanding of the impact of incomplete work across multiple clinics.
Assignment: The Lead MSA is responsible for the coordination of Advanced MSA assignments and workflow found in an interdisciplinary unit. The Lead MSA is responsible for daily workload assessments, assigning work, and assuring proper staffing coverage; evaluating training records; and determining training needs of MSAs to provide support across interdisciplinary settings. The Lead assists the unit with complex and non-standard procedures, including clinical flow processes related to access to care across multiple clinics, specialties, and/or community resources. Assignments at this level include, but are not limited to: ensuring accurate and timely scheduling of appointments; providing guidance to staff members, to include changes in policies and procedures; creating and maintaining employee work schedules; and acting as a liaison among Advanced MSA staff, patients, and other interdisciplinary staff to resolve day-to-day conflicts.
Physical Requirements: You will be asked to participate in a pre-employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre-employment process for this position. Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.
References: VA Handbook 5005/117, PART II, APPENDIX G45
Education
No education substitution for this level.
Additional information
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
- Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be Evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in t...
