Social Worker-Baker Act

Department of Veterans Affairs

This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific eligibility requirements per VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) & eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after review of the EDRP application. Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply.

• The Baker Act Social Worker and Baker Act Coordinator jointly serve as primary coordinators for Baker Act activities across the Orlando VA Healthcare System. Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to: System-wide tracking of all voluntary and involuntary Baker Act episodes, maintaining accurate and current documentation of all related clinical and legal processes, and ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements to support patient safety and legal integrity. Conducting comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments for Veterans presenting with acute psychiatric instability requiring voluntary or involuntary hospitalization under the Baker Act, in collaboration with inpatient mental health social workers. The incumbent partners with the interdisciplinary team to evaluate risk, determine safe discharge for Veterans on a voluntary Baker Act status who make an application for discharge, and collaborate with the psychiatrist who determines whether criteria for conversion to involuntary status are met in high-risk situations. The Social Worker collaborates closely with interdisciplinary treatment teams, the Mental Health Service, and appropriate legal entities to ensure safe and appropriate care throughout the Baker Act process. Reviewing documentation for timeliness and completeness, guiding clinical teams on required procedures, filing legal documents with the Clerk of Courts within designated timeframes, and coordinating with relevant entities for court proceedings. The incumbent maintains expert knowledge of Florida Baker Act laws, provides ongoing education to staff, monitors the Baker Act dashboard for accuracy, and resolves discrepancies. Supports continuity of care, timely review of status hearings, and smooth transition planning following discharge, in collaboration with the interdisciplinary treatment team. Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 08:00am - 04:30pm Telework: Ad-hoc/Situational-Occasional, Non-routine Virtual: This is not a virtual position Functional Statement #: 82719F EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact VISN8CCOE@va.gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more VA Careers - Social Work: https://youtube.com/embed/enRhz_ua_UU

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