Utilization Review (UR) Coordinator / Authorization Representative [Clinical Experience Preferred] – Behavioral Health

Sanctuary Recovery Centers Inc; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Sanctuary Recovery Centers is seeking a detail-oriented Utilization Review (UR) Coordinator / Authorization Representative to manage authorizations for behavioral health services. This in-office role requires knowledge of AHCCCS guidelines and the ability to handle high caseloads while ensuring medical necessity documentation is complete.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years in UR/authorization, clinical experience preferred, and strong communication with payers and clinicians.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2+ years in utilization review, authorizations, or behavioral health administration.
• Clinical experience (peer service, clinician) to aid review of medical necessity.
• Strong knowledge of AHCCCS requirements and authorization processes.
• Experience with timely filing requirements and payer guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Obtain, track, and manage initial and concurrent authorizations for behavioral health services.
• Coordinate utilization review processes per AHCCCS guidelines and medical necessity.
• Submit timely authorization requests in compliance with payer filing requirements.
• Monitor authorizations for expiration and manage concurrent reviews to prevent gaps.
• Maintain records in the EHR and authorization tracking systems.
• Follow up on pending authorizations, denials, and appeals.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, AHCCCS regulations and internal policies.

Skills

Utilization review

Authorizations

Behavioral health administration

EHR systems

Regulatory compliance

Communication skills

Tools

InterQual criteria tools

ASAM criteria tools

Job description

Job Title: Utilization Review (UR) Coordinator / Authorization Representative [Clinical Experience Preferred] - Behavioral Health
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: In-office, Monday through Friday

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Utilization Review (UR) Coordinator / Authorization Representative [clinical experience preferred]. This role is responsible for managing authorizations, ensuring medical necessity documentation, and maintaining compliance with AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System) requirements.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong knowledge of behavioral health utilization management, and has a proven ability to manage high client volumes while maintaining strict adherence to timely filing and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Obtain, track, and manage initial and concurrent authorizations for behavioral health services
• Coordinate and complete utilization review processes in compliance with AHCCCS guidelines and medical necessity criteria
• Submit timely and accurate authorization requests, ensuring adherence to payer-specific timely filing requirements
• Monitor authorizations for expiration and proactively manage concurrent reviews to prevent gaps in coverage
• Communicate effectively with clinical staff, payers, and case managers to gather necessary documentation and ensure continuity of care
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in the EHR and authorization tracking systems
• Review clinical documentation for completeness and alignment with medical necessity standards
• Manage a high volume of client cases, prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines and avoid service disruptions
• Follow up on pending authorizations, denials, and appeals as needed
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and AHCCCS regulations, as well as internal policies and procedures

Qualifications

• Minimum of [2+] years of experience in utilization review, authorizations, or behavioral health administration
• Clinical experience (peer service, clinician, etc.) that could aid in the review of clinical necessity.
• Strong working knowledge of AHCCCS requirements, including authorization processes and compliance standards
• Experience with timely filing requirements and payer-specific guidelines
• Proven ability to manage high caseloads and concurrent reviews in a fast-paced environment
• Familiarity with behavioral health levels of care (e.g., RTC, PHP, IOP, outpatient)
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with EHR systems and authorization tracking tools
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with Medicaid/managed care plans, specifically AHCCCS
• Knowledge of InterQual, ASAM, or other medical necessity criteria tools
• Previous experience handling denials, appeals, and peer-to-peers

Compensation

• Pay Range: $24-29 per hour (DOE)

Key Competencies

• Time management and prioritization
• Accuracy and compliance-driven mindset
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality (HIPAA compliance)
• Adaptability in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment

Why Join Us

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in behavioral health care
• Collaborative and mission-driven team environment
• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• Professional growth and development opportunities

Note:

This position requires strict adherence to AHCCCS guidelines, timely filing requirements, and all applicable regulatory standards. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to manage multiple concurrent authorizations while maintaining accuracy and compliance.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and productive work environment, Sanctuary Recovery Centers conducts background checks and drug screenings for all potential employees. Please note the following:

1. Background Check: All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. This may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information.

2. Drug Screening: Candidates must pass a drug screening test as a condition of employment. This test will screen for the presence of illegal substances and may include random testing during employment.

3. APS Registry: Candidates must pass an APS (Adult Protective Services) registry check before an offer of employment can be extended.

4. Confidentiality: All information obtained during the background check, drug screening, and APS registry check process will be kept confidential and used solely for employment purposes.

5. Compliance: Sanctuary Recovery Centers complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding background checks, drug screenings, and APS registry checks.

By applying for this position, you acknowledge and consent to these procedures.