San Ysidro Health·Chula Vista, California
The psychiatrist is responsible for performing psychiatric assessments, medication management, and diagnostic evaluations of patients in a primary care setting. They also provide consultation to clinical staff and participate in crisis interventions as needed.
Under the direction of the Chief Behavioral Health Officer, the psychiatrist is responsible for supporting behavioral health care provided Behavioral health clinic in primary care settings by a team comprised of primary care physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and behavioral health providers. This psychiatrist is responsible for performing psychiatric assessments, medication management and diagnostic evaluations of patients. Brief, evidenced-based pharmacologic services are provided to children, adolescents, adults and/or older adults in the primary care setting. This staff psychiatrist also works in a consultant role with behavioral health clinicians and PCPs to develop and implement sound treatment plans for patients with physical health, mental health and/or substance use issues. Responds to and provides crisis intervention services when needed; ensures behavioral health services are delivered in a culturally appropriate fashion, and is consistent with State of California laws and regulations, professional standards of care, agency guidelines, and professional ethical guidelines. Essential Functions of the Job: Provides direct psychiatric evaluation and evidenced-based pharmacologic treatment of patients, focusing on patients with diagnostic or therapeutic challenges who are identified in discussion with the patient’s BH clinician and/or PCP. Provides consultation to clinical staff and primary care providers (PCPs) as needed regarding the client’s care, treatment recommendations and progress via documentation in the client’s record, face to face or telephonic consultation. Actively participates in Quality Assurance activities of the Division with regard to treatment Utilization Review, medication monitoring, peer review, procedures and processes. Completes all required documentation in a timely fashion including: the preparation of reports and written documentation, notes and medical records, all other forms and documents as required by the department, company, state and federal agencies. To attend training and work efficiently in both the County EHR Cerner and FQHC EHR Nextgen. Participates in the development and delivery of in‐service training for primary care‐based providers including medical residents and staff regarding current understanding of best practices for the recognition and treatment of behavioral health conditions in primary care as requested. Performs crisis interventions as needed including but not limited to conducting suicide assessments and make recommendations to medical providers and patients; determine if crisis response services are appropriate for patient safety. Works in coordination with the Director of Psychiatry/Director of Psychology to ensure full integration of services and a team based approach to care. Works in coordination with Manager of the CMSS County Contract program. Participates in meetings as required and participate on committees as directed. Maintains productivity expectations in accordance with clinic/program guidelines. Performs any other job-related duties as needed, assigned and/or as requested. Additional
Adheres to all applicable SYHealth policies, procedures, protocols and best practices. Demonstrates effective verbal and written communication skills in collaboration with teams to achieve quality, excellence, harmony and problem-solving to obtain stated goals and objectives. Complies with established departmental and health center wide policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance program, safety, environmental and infection control standards. Ability to organize, set priorities and exercise sound independent judgment within areas of responsibility. Ability to be culturally sensitive and appropriate in working with underserved communities. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with clients, family members, other professional staff and the public. Enhances professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in-service meetings and workshops. Assist in providing supervision of interns and/or unlicensed staff under specification of license held as requested. Coordinate with other consulting psychiatrists and/or PCPs for vacation coverage as needed to ensure continuity of patient care. Willingness to work some early evening and Saturday hours as requested. Attends meetings, as required, and participates on committees, as directed. Demonstrates professional behavior standard etiquette, courtesy, mutual respect, confidentiality and treats every patient and employee with dignity in every interaction. Promotes and fosters respect for patient privacy by maintaining confidentiality on all patient EHR data and abides by both the HIPAA Privacy and Security rules. Job Requirements
Candidates must have an M.D. degree and complete an accredited Psychiatric Residency Program, along with a current California license and board certification or eligibility. Experience in primary care psychiatry or consultation-liaison psychiatry is desired.
Market context
In California, psychiatrist openings often reflect steady demand across behavioral health, outpatient, and community settings, especially where underserved populations need care. These roles are competitive because employers look for an unrestricted California license, DEA registration, ABPN board certification, and experience with physically demanding duties such as CPR. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit and save research time before applying.
