Title
Health Services Department recommending the Board authorize said Department to enter into negotiations with Sacramento and/or Placer County for backup Public Health Laboratory services, pursuant to Board of Supervisors Policy C-1, Contracts With Other Counties.
FUNDING: Health Services Department - Public Health Division Realignment Fund.
Body
Fiscal Impact/Change to Net County Cost: No change to net County cost.
Background: The Health Services Department discontinued the provision of personal healthcare services through its Public Health clinics on December 31, 2008. In February 2009, after performing a cost/benefit analysis of our Public Health Laboratory, the Department recommended continuation of the Lab, but downsizing of staff in view of reduced workload that resulted from prior clinical service changes. While the present Lab staffing (1.0 FTE) is sufficient to address normal workload, there is a need for a back up plan to cover instances of staff absence or the influx of unusually high workload, which may occur during instances of outbreaks or other Public Health emergencies.
Board Policy C-1, Contracts With Other Counties, requires Departments to obtain conceptual approval from the Board prior to initiating negotiations for contracts with other counties. Accordingly, the Health Services Department is recommending approval in concept from the Board to enter into negotiations with Sacramento and/or Placer counties to address the need for backup Public Health Laboratory services. Regionalization and specialization concepts that may result in operational efficiencies and economies of scale may also be explored during negotiations.
Reason for Recommendation: Board approval to enter into contract negotiations with other counties for Public Health Laboratory services would enable the Health Services Department to continue to meet the Public Health Laboratory testing needs of the community.
Action to be taken following Board appro...
Click here for full text