Community-Legal Liaison

Overview

The Community /Legal Liaison Representative is accountable for communicating with the legal system, community mental health centers, private referral agencies, families and hospital personnel to ensure that all patients meet the requirements for admission. Accountable for maintaining communication with the mental health center or referral agency to ensure that the patients' treatment is monitored and for communicating relevant information to all necessary agencies regarding discharge

Responsibilities

Assures that patients meet the legal and hospital requirements for voluntary or involuntary admission to the hospital and/or participation in a treatment plan. Encourages and assists the family in their participation.Works with the community mental health centers and referral sources to assure that admission criteria is followed and that the center or agency has obtained the required documents necessary for admission. Encourages these agencies to monitor the patients treatment and provides them with relevant information at the time of discharge.Maintains communications with the legal system regarding patient status, ie: home visits, convalescent leave and discharge. Secures necessary documents for continued treatment.Coordinates court proceedings held at the hospital by notifying staff of the time of their appearance and ensuring the patients attendance.Maintains a current record of involuntary patients' legal status as it applies to their approved length of admission and keeps physicians and staff apprised of any changes.Notifies the legal system, the community mental health centers and family members of patients who leave the hospital without authorization. Maintains documentation regarding such actions.Maintains up-to-date knowledge of current and proposed mental health legislation as it relates to admission of patients and reimbursement and keep appropriate staff informed of any changes.Works with the legal system and with the community mental health centers and private referral agencies to insure their familiarity and compliance with Kentucky Mental Health statutes and with ARH policies and procedures regarding admission and treatment.Provides "On Call" back-up for after hours involuntary admissions and other necessary court contact efforts.

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's Degree in field of Social Work, Psychology or a related field with a minimum of two (2) years experience in a mental health setting. Required

Basic Life Support Required