Melissa Gallagher
Summary
Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Family Services Specialist II
Oklahoma Human Services
01.2015 - Current
- Intake / Certification Worker SNAP, Aged, Blind & Disabled related Medicaid, and Child Care.
- Determine financial eligibility for SNAP; Aged, Blind, & Disabled- related Medicaid; and Child Care Assistance
- Assist individuals & families with Agency View for Soonercare Applications
- Transitioned from serving a 1-county model to a 3-county model, and then on to a 5-county cluster
- April 2020 transitioned to full teleworker in this same capacity
- Currently operating under a statewide model on the OnDemand Blue E Team.
- Assist individuals & families with online applications for SNAP, Aged, Blind & Disabled-related Medicaid, Child Care, Soonercare, and Liheap using InContact/ CXOne.
- Assist applicants obtaining necessary verification for expedition of eligibility determination
- Assisted families in navigating the social services system, including applying for benefits, accessing resources and connecting with other family support services.
- Field calls answering generic case questions, explain notices, determine missing information needed for a case completion, and provide referral information
- Maintained confidential records and documentation in IMS, FACS and OnBase databases.
- Attended and participated staff meetings and training seminars.
- Documented data and completed accurate updates to case records.
Social Services Specialist II
Oklahoma Human Services
04.2006 - 12.2014
- Determined financial eligibility for Long Term Care programs (State Plan Personal Care, Advantage, and Nursing Home) as well as the companion programs such as SNAP, ABD, QBM, SLMB, & QI-1.
- Interviewed applicants or responsible party, assisted with completion of applications, AG-2 referral forms, and medical social summaries.
- Collected needed verification from applicants as well as assisted them in obtaining needed verification(s).
- Developed partnerships with Area Nurses, healthcare providers, and other community partners to enhance overall service provision.
- Maintained caseload by handling all referrals, changes, and renewals.
- Cultivated positive, trusting relationships with clients and community providers to promote effective coordination of resources.
- Educated clients on available resources, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care plans.
Social Services Specialist II
Oklahoma Human Services
05.2000 - 03.2006
- Interviewed and collected information to determine eligibility for SNAP, Soonercare, QMB, SLMB, QI-1 and Child Care for individuals and families including those with special needs.
- Managed the caseload including applications, renewals, and changes
- Provided referrals for other DHS programs and community resources such as DDSD, LTC, SoonerStart, Salvation Army, etc.
Social Worker Assistant
Oklahoma Human Services
10.1995 - 04.2000
- Promoted during this period from Social Worker Assistant to Social Worker I then on to Social Services Specialist II
- Managed a case load of of families in need of Child Care assistance
- Managed a case load of disabled children receiving SSI
- Interviewed applicants and determined eligibility for both these programs, including ABD -related Medicaid and State Supplemental Payment for the SSI children.
- Processed referrals for assistive equipment for children receiving SSI through the SSI-Disabled Children's Program.
- Worked with parents, providers, therapists, Sooner Start Advocates, etc. in development of service plans needed for SSI-DCP.
- Processed monthly orders for diapers and formula made available through SSI-DCP.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Social Gerontology
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Durant, OK05-1995
Skills
- Self-awareness
- Confidentiality practices
- Critical thinking
- Self-Motivated
- Good listening skills
- Adaptability
- Compassion
- Organization and Time Management
- Good written communication
- Computer skills
Timeline
Family Services Specialist II
Oklahoma Human Services
01.2015 - Current
Social Services Specialist II
Oklahoma Human Services
04.2006 - 12.2014
Social Services Specialist II
Oklahoma Human Services
05.2000 - 03.2006
Social Worker Assistant
Oklahoma Human Services
10.1995 - 04.2000
Bachelor of Arts - Social Gerontology
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
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