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Adopt a resolution that approves the Department of Health and Social Services to operate an integrated and comprehensive County health and human services system as an integrated agency, as specified under Assembly Bill (AB) 2821
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Published Notice Required? Yes _____ No __X__
Public Hearing Required? Yes _____ No __X__
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Department of Health & Social Services (H&SS) recommends that the Board adopt a resolution that approves the Department of Health and Social Services to operate an integrated and comprehensive County health and human services system as an integrated agency, as specified under Assembly Bill (AB) 2821.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
On September 10, 2018, Assembly Bill (AB) 2821 was signed into California law, amending section 18991.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to health and human services. The legislation becomes effective January 1, 2019. Upon receipt by the California Health and Human Services Agency of a Board of Supervisors certified resolution or current ordinance, AB 2821 provides a county with statutory authority to operate an integrated health and human services system, allowing for further incorporation of services and funding streams as allowable by law. As an integrated agency, H&SS will have authority to: 1) maintain and evaluate a system administration that integrates and coordinates the management and support of client services; and 2) maintain a system of reporting and accountability that provides for the combined provision of services without the loss of State or federal funds. The integrated and comprehensive county health and human services system may include, but is not limited to, any of the following:
(1) Adoption services.
(2) Child abuse prevention services.
(3) Child welfare services.
(4) Delinquency prevention services.
(5) Drug and alcohol services.
(6) Mental health services.
(7) Eligibility determination.
(8) Employment and training services.
(9) Foster care services.
(10) Health services.
(11) Public health services.
(12) Housing services.
(13) Medically indigent program services.
(14) Veterans’ services.
(15) Aging services.
(16) Any other related program as designated by the board of supervisors.
As an integrated agency, H&SS also has greater flexibility in the utilization of 2011 Realignment funds as California Welfare and Institutions Code 30025 authorizes counties that operate an integrated and comprehensive county health and human services system to reallocate money between the Protective Services Subaccount and the Behavioral Health Subaccount within the Support Services Account of the County Local Revenue Fund 2011. Counties that do not operate as an integrated agency are limited to an annual transfer of 10 percent.
Solano County Health and Social Services is administratively integrated and has taken steps over the past several years to integrate services such as the recent transfer of Older and Disabled Adults to Public Health; however, the integration has not yet been adequately optimized for services and customers. Several State-led initiatives have also impacted the Department’s ability and desire to enhance integration. Examples include Continuum of Care reform, which targets increasing positive outcomes for foster youth by assuring integrated services between child welfare and behavioral health; Solano County acting as the administering body for the Area Agency on Aging; the upcoming Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System; and the numerous funding and service opportunities regarding housing for vulnerable populations with supportive services in place. Due to these in progress and upcoming initiatives, the Department will also be undergoing an organizational assessment to assure the structure and talent within the department are aligned and positioned for the most effective and efficient integrated service delivery for the community.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing the agenda item are nominal and absorbed by the department’s 2018/2019 Approved Budget. There is no additional financial impact to the County General Fund with the recommended action.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board may choose not to approve the operation of an integrated and comprehensive county health and human services system. This is not recommended as the approval will allow for greater fiscal and service integration for the department to serve the community.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The department consulted with the County Administrator’s Office in the development of the staff report. The counties of San Diego and Placer already have the authority to operate as integrated agencies.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION