Sandra Polanco

Compassionate professional with a decade of experience in case management, specializing in resolving various situations and fostering positive outcomes. Proficient in client relations, service engagement, and records management. Demonstrated ability to work independently, maintain organized schedules, and ensure thorough follow-through on case needs. Skilled in serving culturally diverse populations and delivering creative and flexible service solutions. Empathetic Senior Case Manager with 10 years of experience in Case management. Compassionate professional giving back to community through service to others.

• Case Management Specialist - Advanced Practice, Compass Connections, Houston, TX, 11/2019, Present, Ensured compliance with federal and state regulatory guidelines and agency standards, maintaining a thorough understanding of agency policies, procedures, licensing, and contract standards. Managed a case load according to agency policies and procedures, prioritizing the safety of children and families. Provided feedback and support to crisis line staff and engaged clients in case process. Maintained regular contact with children and families, assessing changes and needs. Compiled and maintained accurate records in compliance with agency requirements.
• Lead Case Manager, BCFS, Baytown, TX, 08/2016, 09/2019, Demonstrated sound professional judgment and best practices in providing quality case management services as a lead case manager. Implemented strategies to ensure swift reunification of the service population with their family/sponsor(s), prioritizing the well-being and safety of individuals. Led a team of case managers, providing guidance, support, and supervision to ensure effective service delivery and achievement of program goals. Developed and implemented policies and procedures to improve case management processes and enhance service outcomes. Collaborated with stakeholders, including families, sponsors, and community partners, to facilitate successful reunification and support services. Monitored and evaluated case management activities to identify areas for improvement and ensure continuous quality improvement. Provided training and mentorship to case management staff, promoting professional growth and development within the team. Prepared and presented reports on case management activities, outcomes, and compliance to management and regulatory agencies.
• Case Manager, BCFS, Baytown, TX, 05/2014, 06/2016, Ensured compliance with all federal and state regulatory guidelines and standards applicable to the position, maintaining a thorough understanding of agency policies, procedures, licensing, and contract standards. Managed a case load in accordance with agency policies and procedures, ensuring adherence to licensing and contract standards while prioritizing the safety and well-being of children and families. Provided feedback and support to crisis line staff to ensure appropriate responses to crisis calls, address families' needs with the best possible support, and conduct follow-ups as needed. Engaged and involved children and their sponsors in the casework process, documenting progress towards risk reduction, achievement of service goals, and positive case outcomes. Maintained confidentiality in all areas of the service population and program operations, demonstrating respect for privacy and ethical standards.
• Social Worker, Department of Correction P.R, 09/2001, 03/2014, Acted as the primary case manager for clients enrolled in the Department of Correction's Offenders with Medical and Mental Impairments program, overseeing service plan development, service linkage, coordination of clinic services, monitoring, advocacy, crisis resolution, and liaison services. Provided symptom management services and psychosocial rehabilitation and skills training to assist clients in identifying and managing symptoms of mental illness and maintaining community living. Managed a caseload of individuals released from the state prison system, ensuring continuity of care and support. Conducted home studies of inmates' family members or family friends, assessing risk and safety issues, and facilitating family reunification where appropriate. Attended and participated in court hearings, prepared court reports, and testified on clients' progress reports, collaborating with the department's attorney as needed.