Behavioral Health Specialist

Under the clinical supervision of the Director of the Behavioral Health Psychiatric Consult Service and the administrative supervision of the VP of Mission Effectiveness, the Behavioral Health Social Worker Inpatient and Emergency Dept. is available for requests from the Emergency Department and the medical/surgical units of Mercy Hospital to assess the emotional, social and environmental needs of adolescent through geriatric patients and families The incumbent provides psychiatric and/or chemical dependency assessments, counseling, information, community resource referrals, and arrangements for continuing care and/or coordinated discharge planning. The social worker is responsible for negotiating / advocating for the most appropriate / least restrictive services for the patient. Serves as an expert about, and as a liaison to, community resource programs and coordinates services between area providers. The Social Worker models a multidisciplinary approach to providing quality patient care and routinely involves Behavioral Health Nurse Practitioners, Mercy Psychiatrists, Acadia psychiatrists and all pertinent internal and external providers in developing treatment and discharge plans. The incumbent performs duties and tasks in accordance with performance standards established for the job. The incumbent is responsible for participation in and completion of all patient safety initiatives appropriate to the position. In addition, the incumbent conducts all job responsibilities according to the Mission and Values of Mercy Hospital.