Liza Rivera-Hutchings

The Veterans Claims Examiner (VCE) serves as the primary contact and subject matter expert for the veteran and/or the claimant and/or their representative and/or advocate and is the main decision-maker for the full range of education claims.

• Adjudicate claims for education benefits of increasing difficulty for the eventual adjudication of the full gamut of Education claims.
• Examine documents of various types to determine the validity of evidence involved in the adjudication of claims.
• Develop facts and evidence in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, procedures that are involved in the adjudication of claims.
• Conduct interviews in person, via phone, or through electronic communications sources with Veterans, claimants, representatives, or other parties involved in order to further develop claims.
• Follow protocols for the control of claims and workload, holding responsibility for timeliness and control of claims.

Responsible for the assessment, care planning and coordination of care and services to individuals with chronic illnesses, substance abuse and mental health, including ongoing monitoring of an appropriate and effective person-centered care plan; member education and care management.

• Oversaw staff training and development programs, ensuring employees were equipped with the skills needed to excel in their roles.
• Facilitated regular team meetings, keeping staff informed about updates, changes, or upcoming events related to the program they supervised.
• Evaluated program performance regularly, using data-driven insights to inform future decision-making processes.
• Demonstrated strong leadership skills under challenging circumstances, effectively managing team dynamics during periods of transition or high-stress environments.
• Reviewed case notes in a timely and accurate manner to assure compliance with NYS Department of Health.
• Forged Community Connections with businesses, other nonprofit organizations, and club centers for the benefit of the organization and clients.

Responsible for the execution and analysis of the community outreach efforts under the Domestic Violence awareness program. Coordinate 75 yearly outreach sessions throughout Erie County to spread awareness, provide information and network.