To: Board of Supervisors
From: Dr. Grant Colfax, Health Services Director
Report Title: Contract #74-655-4 with United Behavioral Health (dba Optum)
Recommendation: Recommendation of the County Administrator
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RECOMMENDATIONS:
APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-655-4 with United Behavioral Health (dba Optum), a corporation, in an amount not to exceed $823,820 to provide after-hours call coverage services for the Behavioral Health Access Line, for the period from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Approval of this Contract will result in an annual expenditure of up to $823,820 and will be funded as budgeted by the department in FY 2026-2027, 100% by Mental Health Realignment Funds.
BACKGROUND:
This Contract with United Behavioral Health (dba Optum) is to continue a partnership with San Mateo, Sonoma, and Marin counties to provide after-hours behavioral health information and referral line coverage. This Contract will ensure the County always has a staffed and functional Access Line for County residents who are in need of Specialty Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse Disorder services and will free up resources at the Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) Unit, minimize the call drop rate, and provide better coverage and coordination of care. The nature of the after-hours call services needed is complex and requires seamless coordination, integration, and collaboration with existing programs, systems, and personnel. United Behavioral Health is familiar with the County’s specific requirements to help ensure a smoother implementation and delivery process and has a proven track record and established reputation. Their holistic approach ensures optimal resource allocation and cost-efficiency while maintaining quality patient care.
This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code §§ 26227 and 31000. This Contrac...
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