Health Benefits Assistant

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. GS-05 grade level: One year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-04 grade level in the federal service); experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities (KSA’s) and other characteristics to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled, in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Specialized experience includes: knowledge of all aspects of Business Office/Health Administration Service programs and knowledge of how they interrelate to all other medical center services and programs. Knowledge of medical and administrative record system, Privacy Act and Freedom of Information Act, as they relate to the release of information on patients. Ability to interpret and apply rules, regulations, policies, and procedures and to make sound decisions, using good judgment. Ability to deal with variety of individuals with tact and diplomacy. Knowledge of using a personal computer Word, Excel, and various VISTA packages such as Integrated Billing, Registration, Appointment Management, Enrollment, and Patient Demographics software applications. OR Education: Applicants may substitute education for the required experience. To qualify based on education for this grade level you must have 4 years above high school graduation or equivalent (TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED). OR Combination: Applicants may also combine education and experience to qualify at the GS-05 level. You must have a combination of specialized experience and education beyond the first 60 semester hours (i.e., beyond the second year) is creditable toward meeting the specialized experience requirement. One full academic year of study (30 semester hours) beyond the second year is equivalent to 6 months of specialized experience (TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED). You will be rated on the following Competencies for this position: Client Orientation Computer Skills Customer Service Technical Credibility 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 position is located at the Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center, Walla Walla, Washington (VAWW), servicing Veterans residing in a 42,000 square mile primary service area within VISN 20 Northwest Network. The incumbent is responsible for a wide range of assignments and provides administrative support to Member Services Unit and the clinical staff recovery aspects of this position have a direct impact of the facility.