This role coordinates the involuntary commitment process for inpatient, ambulatory, and residential services at Western Psychiatric Hospital, serving as a resource on regulatory requirements, the PA Mental Health Procedures Act, and petition completion. Responsibilities include coordinating hearings with courts and county entities, communicating with patients, families, and staff, supporting legal processes, and ensuring patient rights and confidentiality. The position also oversees timely filing of commitment petitions, provides staff education on electronic systems and transfers, and tracks inpatient admissions for accuracy and compliance.
Responsibilities:
Staff Education & Support
- Serve as a resource on involuntary commitment processes, including PA Mental Health Procedures Act, regulatory requirements, and petition completion
- Educate clinical/medical staff on electronic filing systems and provide guidance on patient transfers
Hearing Coordination
- Coordinate hearing room activities, notify participants, and communicate hearing status/process to involved parties
- Manage hearing schedules with County, courts, and internal departments
Legal & Compliance
- Ensure patient confidentiality and protect patient rights throughout the commitment process
- Communicate issues impacting legal status to Unit Director and Legal Counsel
- Support ECT court order filings and provide required information to courts/county
Documentation & Tracking
- Ensure timely logging and filing of commitment petitions and extensions
- Track inpatient admissions and review for accuracy
Associate Degree/Bachelor's Degree preferred, with at least 1 year behavioral health experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
In depth knowledge of PA Mental Health Procedures Act required.
Excellent organizational skills and verbal communication skills are required.
Customer service skills are essential.
Computer keyboard skills required.
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
- Comprehensive Crisis Management (CCMC)
- Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting with renewal
- Act 33 with renewal
- Act 34 with renewal
- Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal
UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran