To: Board of Supervisors
From: Anna Roth, Health Services Director
Report Title: Contract #74-655-1 with United Behavioral Health (dba Optum)
RECOMMENDATIONS:
APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-655-1 with United Behavioral Health (dba Optum), a corporation, in an amount not to exceed $781,407 to provide after-hours call coverage for the Behavioral Health Access Line, for the period from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Approval of this contract will result in an annual expenditure of up to $781,407 and will be fully funded as budgeted by the department in FY 2023-24 by Mental Health Realignment funds. (Rate increase)
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. A contract was previously held by San Mateo County, who has requested that Contra Costa County administer the contract beginning Fiscal year 2022-23. This contract will ensure the county always has a staffed and functional Access Line for 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. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code ?? 26227 and 31000. This contractor has worked with Behavioral Health division fostering a deep understanding of the county's mission, values and long-term objectives since July 1, 2022.
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 he...
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