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Health and Human Services Agency recommending the Board:
1) Approve and authorize the Chair to sign non-financial Agreement 4279 with Unite USA, Inc., doing business as Unite Us, Inc., for the provision of software access allowing client referrals across a network of organizations, for a perpetual term to commence upon execution; and
2) Authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute further documents relating to Agreement 4279, including amendments which do not change the amount or term of the Agreement, and contingent upon approval by County Counsel and Risk Management.
FUNDING: Non-Financial.
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DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND:
The Behavioral Health Network of South Lake Tahoe (BHN) is a network of over twenty organizations that are working together to enhance the way individuals and families access programs and services on the South Shore, otherwise known as the East Slope of El Dorado County. One enhancement to the network BHN has implemented is a secure Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) -compliant electronic referral platform enabling organizations to refer and connect people to needed services while tracking service delivery outcomes. The electronic referral platform is provided by Unite USA, Inc., a Delaware Corporation doing business as Unite Us, Inc.
The Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) wishes to participate in the referral network, thereby assisting clients to find and engage in needed services, as well as to increase the availability of documentation around service areas that may need further attention and resources. In order for HHSA to participate, approval of this HIPAA Business Associate Agreement (BAA) is necessary as it identifies the legal parameters for sharing personal health information.
ALTERNATIVES:
Should the Board decline to approve this recommendation, HHSA would continue to provide referrals and collect data through existing contracts.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION:
N/A
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
Approved by County Counsel, Human Resources, and Risk Management.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board approve this item.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This HIPAA BAA is a non-financial agreement, therefore, there is no cost to the County.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
1) Clerk of the Board to obtain signature of Chair on two (2) original Agreements 4279.
2) Clerk of the Board to return one (1) fully executed Agreement to HHSA Contracts Unit at 3057 Briw Rd.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT:
County Strategic Plan, Healthy Communities goal, Objective 4: “Achieve better outcomes for children, young adults and families in the areas of mental illness and substance abuse prevention.”
CONTACT
Don Semon, Director