At TURN our mission is Improving Lives. Our organization embraces the tenets of client-centered care, and our core values Integrity, Diversity, Mentorship, and Inclusion are at the forefront of everything we do. We hire exceptional individuals seeking meaningful opportunities in a purpose-driven environment.
JOB SUMMARY
The Patient’s’ Rights Advocate (PRA) provides advocacy services to, and investigate complaints regarding abuse and denials of rights of, state hospital patient’s, provides trainings to both the hospital staff and residents, and represents patient’s at hearings on site involving involuntary medication on or at other due process hearings. This position provides services in the field is 50% of the time.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Receive and investigate complaints from or concerning state hospital regarding abuse/neglect, punitive withholding, or unreasonable denial of patients’ rights. Responsible for a heavy caseload.Provide direct representation for involuntary medication hearings held in house at the state Hospitals.Maintain the complaint process and services in a confidential manner.Ensure state hospital residents are notified of their rights and provide informational presentations to residents regarding their rights.Provide training and education about mental health laws and patients' rights to facility staff. Act as a consultant to Hospital staff in patients' rights.Advocate for residents who are unable to register a complaint because of their physical or mental health conditions.Participate in all unit meetings, trainings, functions, and communications.Monitor facility programs and services for compliance with patients' rights laws, regulations and procedures as directed.Participation in outreach activities to minority and underserved populations.Provide advocacy services Conduct unit visits on a weekly basis.Possess working knowledge and understanding of the mental health and criminal justice systems.Experience working with and a sensitivity to the rights of persons with disabilities.Knowledge of working with and a sensitivity to persons from multi-ethnic communities.Skilled in direct advocacy for persons with psychiatric disabilities.Working knowledge of the legal, civil, and service rights of persons with psychiatric disabilities in California. Experience with the mental health system as a current or former consumer/or with family member, significant other.Other duties as assigned.Comply with all MHS and program rules, policies and procedures including HIPAA standards.
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree in a related field. Four (4) years direct life experience as a mental health consumer or four (4) years of experience as a consumer advocate may be substituted in lieu of the bachelor’s degree (i.e., social work, counseling, self-help).Two (2) years of experience as a consumer advocate within the social, human service, government, or health care environment. (If using experience in lieu of Bachelor's degree, this qualification has been met).Involvement with disability organizations and/or within disability communities.Valid CA Drivers License and vehicle insurance required. Proficient user of Microsoft Office Suite and EHR software.Ability to problem solve and react appropriately to emergency situations.Ability to work independently and effectively collaborate with a team.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with qualified disabilities to perform the essential functions.
☒ Seeing
☒ Hearing
☒ Speaking
☒ Stooping/Bending
☐ Working in cramped spaces
☒ Moving around office
☒ Moving between offices/clients
☒ Driving
☒ Climbing
☐ Lifting/carrying heavy items
☐ Pushing/pulling/dragging items
☒ Standing for long periods
☐ Working outside/underground
☒ Using hands/fingers
☐ Sitting for long periods of time
I can perform the above job duties:
☐ Without accommodation ☐ With accommodation. If so, please specify:
OTHER DUTIES
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.