Assessment Services Coordinator

Alvarado Parkway Institute•La Mesa, CA

3d•$29 - $35•Onsite

About The Position

Alvarado Parkway Institute (API), a free-standing psychiatric hospital in La Mesa, California, provides adult inpatient behavioral health and addictive disorders services, as well as Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient programs. The Assessment Services Coordinator assesses the needs of walk-in patients and callers and connects them with the service or resource best suited to those needs. This full-time position is scheduled Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., for 32–40 hours per week. Applicants must complete an online application at API’s careers website to be considered.

Requirements

Master’s degree in psychology or an equivalent master’s degree in a recognized mental health field.
College-level reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics skills.
Basic knowledge of abnormal psychology and mental health problems, and the ability to apply related principles.
Familiarity with psychological, sociological, and medical terminology.
Ability to analyze and evaluate information and solve problems.
Excellent oral communication skills and legible handwriting.
Ability to concentrate, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality of all information.
Organization and time-management skills.
Ability to deal courteously with the public and individuals within API/BHS.
Crisis-management skills.
Ability to persuade prospective patients and family members who demonstrate denial or resistance to treatment, within the context of appropriate clinical interventions.
Satisfactory background and reference checks.
Pass a drug and alcohol test, obtain a clear TB skin test or chest X-ray, and complete a satisfactory physical examination to determine ability to perform the position’s duties.
Comply with annual flu vaccination requirements, subject to the stated medical exemption and documentation conditions.
Sign the employment non-compete/confidentiality agreement.
Maintain current and valid licensure, registration, or certification if required for the position, and provide updated documentation to Human Resources.

Nice To Haves

Basic data-entry skills, including some experience using a computer.

Responsibilities

Screen patients before admission, complete screenings promptly, and explain available treatment options.
Complete the steps needed to facilitate admissions to inpatient or outpatient services for assessed patients.
Screen inpatient-unit patients for outpatient services appropriateness; complete pre-admission assessments promptly, explain outpatient treatment options and commitments, and engage patients in understanding the advantages of treatment.
Enter required patient information into appropriate computer files; document calls and related information on TRIMS forms; and submit documentation supporting medical necessity and admission criteria.
Complete required third-party notifications in accordance with organizational policies, procedures, and community or legal requirements; represent the facility in legal proceedings.
Demonstrate cultural sensitivity toward patients and staff.
Recognize and respond appropriately to assignment priorities.
Perform routine assignments independently and seek direction when unusual or non-routine duties arise.
Advise appropriate personnel when a situation requires additional expertise or technical follow-up.
Maintain a professional physical appearance representing the organization and department.
Perform duties without interrupting patient care or effective organizational and departmental operations.
Perform other duties as assigned.