Program Specialist

The Commitment Specialist performs assigned tasks associated with coordinating the involuntary commitment process for assigned inpatient units. These tasks include coordinating and managing activities related to voluntary and involuntary commitment proceedings for assigned inpatient units. Reviews legal documentation for accuracy, monitors filing deadlines, serves as a resource to clinical staff, and helps ensure adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and patient confidentiality standards.

Responsibilities:

Commitment Management & Compliance

• Track inpatient admissions and verify commitment accuracy.
• Complete voluntary consent forms and involuntary petitions in accordance with regulations.
• Log, monitor, and file commitment extension petitions within required deadlines.
• Review court orders for accuracy and report discrepancies.

Legal Process Support

• Serve as a resource to clinical staff on involuntary commitment procedures, regulatory requirements, and the PA Mental Health Procedures Act.
• Protect patient confidentiality and uphold patient rights throughout the commitment and hearing process.
• Escalate issues that may impact a patient's legal status or continued hospitalization to appropriate clinical and leadership staff.

Collaboration & Communication

• Participate in interdisciplinary meetings to support effective communication and coordination of care.
• Serve on hospital, patient care, or systemwide committees and share relevant updates with the department.

Professional Development & Technology

• Maintain required competencies and ongoing professional development.
• Learn and utilize current technology and systems to support departmental operations.

• Associate degree, in a Human Services field with at least 1-year behavioral health experience required OR Bachelors degree in a Human Services field (preferred).

• 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