Behavioral Health Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Duties and Responsibilities:

The Behavioral Health Care Coordinator serves as a key member of the Behavioral Health team, working closely with the Behavioral Health Director, clinicians, medical providers, support staff, and patients to ensure timely access to care and a positive patient experience. This position is responsible for coordinating behavioral health referrals, scheduling appointments, maintaining accurate patient records, verifying insurance eligibility, supporting patient engagement, and serving as a primary point of contact for patients seeking behavioral health services. The Behavioral Health Care Coordinator plays an important role in supporting integrated care and ensuring efficient department operations.

Essential Functions:

• Promote timely access to behavioral health services for new and existing patients.
• Coordinate and schedule initial and follow-up appointments for behavioral health services, including in-person and telehealth visits.
• Manage and process behavioral health referrals received through the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
• Assist clinicians with appointment coordination and patient follow-up activities as appropriate.
• Maintain and manage patient waitlists to optimize appointment availability.
• Conduct appointment reminder calls and patient outreach as needed.
• Troubleshoot scheduling and access issues to support continuity of care.
• Register patients and verify demographic, insurance, and eligibility information within the EHR system.
• Ensure appointments are accurately scheduled and documented, including visit types and required patient information.
• Document all patient outreach, contacts, and scheduling activities in accordance with organizational standards.
• Track and maintain productivity and operational reports as assigned.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations and organizational policies.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for behavioral health patients regarding scheduling and appointment inquiries.
• Serve as a liaison between behavioral health clinicians, patients, and the call center to facilitate efficient communication and coordination.
• Maintain consistent communication with behavioral health providers regarding scheduling needs and patient access.
• Participate in departmental meetings, quality improvement initiatives, and other team activities.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Required

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or a minimum of two (2) years of experience in healthcare, behavioral health, social services, care coordination, patient access, or a related field.
• Experience working with diverse populations, including individuals facing behavioral health challenges, substance use disorders, chronic medical conditions, housing instability, or other social service needs.
• Knowledge of HIPAA requirements, documentation standards, and applicable county, state, and federal regulations related to behavioral health services.
• Strong organizational, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with patients, families, providers, and community partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Experience with electronic health records (EHRs) and accurate data entry.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Commitment to Via Care's mission, values, and patient-centered approach to care.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Must have a reliable automobile for use on the job (mileage to be reimbursed).
• Subject to a criminal background check before employment.
• Valid California Driver License and automobile insurance coverage.
• TB clearance, to be renewed every year.
• Annual Influenza Vaccination, TB, & COVID

Preferred

• Experience in a community health center, behavioral health, integrated care, or social services setting.
• Knowledge of integrated behavioral health, care coordination, and patient navigation best practices.
• Experience supporting individuals with mental health conditions, substance use disorders, or complex social needs.
• Familiarity with crisis response protocols and coordinating services during urgent or emergency situations.

Core Competencies

• Patient-centered customer service and advocacy.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Cultural humility and sensitivity in working with diverse populations.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaboration and teamwork across multidisciplinary care teams.
• Adaptability and willingness to learn new processes and systems.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Via Care Community Health Center provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Via Care Community Health Center complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the organization has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

In compliance with California Labor Code § 432.3, as amended effective January 1, 2026, this job posting includes the pay scale for the position. The pay scale represents a goodfaith estimate of the salary or hourly wage range the employer reasonably expects to pay for the position upon hire. Actual compensation within the posted range will depend on experience, skills, and internal equity.