WELLSTONE: Restoring Benefits, Transforming Lives
Losing Medicaid, Social Security Income, or Disability benefits can take a toll, causing financial hardship, undue stress, and limited access to healthcare — including mental healthcare. That’s why WellStone is working diligently to help clients recover these critical benefits. We recently hired three Benefit Enrollment Specialists to guide individuals and families through this complicated process.
“Many of our clients face uncertainty about their healthcare options, along with financial concerns and a lack of understanding about available resources,” said Patrice O’Neal, the Benefit Enrollment Specialist serving Nova Center families. “They may feel overwhelmed, unsure of where to start, or frustrated with the complexity of healthcare and insurance systems. My role is to help break down these barriers, ensuring they receive the support and guidance they need.”
Meet Our Benefit Enrollment Specialists
- Anna Brown assists Madison County clients in Adult Outpatient and New Horizons.
- Felicia Buchanan, based in Cullman, has been part of the WellStone team for 10 years, most recently working in geriatrics.
- Patrice O’Neal serves youth and families in the Nova Center.
“The application process for SSI/SSDI can be very stressful,” explained Brown. “Having someone to assist with that process takes some stress off clients who are already facing a lot due to their health conditions.”
While Brown and O’Neal are new to the WellStone family, Buchanan has spent the last decade with the organization. While she enjoyed her work with geriatric clients, she is eager to take on this new professional challenge.
“What I love most about working with WellStone is the opportunity to constantly grow and learn new things,” said Buchanan. “It’s an honor to help others and see the positive impact my work has on a client’s life. Every day is different, and I’ve learned so much by helping clients get their benefits started or renewed.”
The success of the Benefit Enrollment Specialist role relies heavily on the “in-reach” within WellStone. Any team member can refer a client to a Benefit Enrollment Specialist. A client can also reach out on his or her own.
“This position is still fairly new to WellStone,” explained Brown. “I’m so grateful for the trust and the feedback I’ve received from co-workers about this endeavor so far. I know everyone involved is committed to making this process better and better, so I can’t wait to see what it looks like down the road.”
Brown, Buchanan, and O’Neal have already worked with dozens of clients, helping many get back the coverage that is essential to their quality of life.
“The joy I feel when I know that I have made a difference in someone’s day is such an indescribable feeling,” beamed Buchanan. “It means a lot, whether it’s helping someone complete an application for benefits, getting the approval letter, or just taking time to listen.”
Individuals and families can lose benefits for any number of reasons. Regardless, the Benefit Enrollment Specialists will work hard to achieve the most positive outcomes possible. It’s all part of our ongoing efforts to improve access to care through the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) system.
“The best part of my job is seeing the relief on a client’s face when they realize they have options and support,” said O’Neal. “Working in this field has taught me the importance of patience, empathy, and clear communication. Every client has a unique story, and meeting them where they are — both emotionally and logistically — is something I take great pride in. I’m grateful to be part of a team that truly cares about the people we serve.”