; (2) voluntarily left such position, or was subject to a reduction in force, and had a satisfactory performance record while occupying such position; and (3) since leaving such position has maintained licensing requirements, related to the position, if any, and gained skill, knowledge, or other factors related to the position. 7. Recruiting database (a) Establishment The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish a single database that lists— (1) each vacant position in the Department of Veterans Affairs that the Secretary determines is critical to the mission of the Department, difficult to fill, or both; and (2) each vacant position in the Department of Veterans Affairs for a mental health professional. (b) Qualified applicant If the Secretary determines that an applicant for a vacant position listed in the database established under subsection (a) is qualified for such position but does not select the applicant for such position, the Secretary, at the election of the applicant, may consider the applicant for other similar vacant positions listed in the database for which the applicant is qualified. (c) Prolonged vacancies If the Secretary does not fill a vacant position listed in the database established under subsection (a) after a period determined appropriate by the Secretary, the Secretary— (1) may ensure that applicants described in subsection (b) are considered for such position