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Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) recommending the Board:
1) Make findings that the provision of Medi-Cal Peer Support services provided by California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA) are in the public's best interest and that there are specialty skills, qualifications, and equipment not expressly identified in County classifications involved in the performance of the work in accordance with El Dorado County Ordinance Code, Chapter 3.13.030(B);
2) Approve and authorize the Chair to sign Agreement for Services 7410 with CalMHSA, with a not-to-exceed amount of $46,000, effective upon execution through December 31, 2024; and
3) Authorize the HHSA Director or Behavioral Health Director, to execute further documents relating to Agreement 7410 contingent upon approval by County Counsel and Risk Management, including amendments which do not increase the maximum dollar amount or term of the Agreement.
FUNDING: 100% Mental Health Services Act (MHSA).
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DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND:
The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) designated California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA) as the certifying agency for Peer Support Specialists. CalMHSA established a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification program as required in Behavioral Health Information Notice (BHIN) 21-041 for interested counties. CalMHSA developed a standardized peer certification procedure which includes centralized application process, certification of trainers, development and administration of a standardized exam, and all related infrastructure.
Additionally, counties have selected CalMHSA as the certifying entity responsible for the certification, examination, and enforcement of professional standards for Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists in California. El Dorado community members with lived experience, including MHSA contract providers and potentially county staff, will be trained to help their peers. Trained Peer Support Specialists will expand t...
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