Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Louise F. Rogers, Chief, San Mateo County Health
Chester J. Kunnappilly, MD, Chief Executive Officer, San Mateo Medical Center
Subject: Agreement with Sonrisas Dental Health Inc to Provide Dental Health Services
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution authorizing an agreement with Sonrisas Dental Health Inc to provide dental health services for the term of January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2027, in an amount not to exceed $380,646.
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BACKGROUND:
San Mateo County Health has been awarded the Health Care for the Homeless/Farmworker Health (HCH/FH) grant from the Bureau of Primary Health Care, Health Services and Resources Administration of the US Department of Health and Human Services. The grant funds San Mateo Medical Center’s (SMMC) ongoing HCH/FH program, which is designed to assist homeless and farmworker adults, families, and youth with access to and utilization of SMMC’s continuum of care and other medical, health and support services. In July 2024, the HCH/FH program completed a Request for Proposals for dental services for farmworkers and their dependents on the coast. Such services include diagnostic and preventative services, basic dental services, and major restorative services.
DISCUSSION:
Sonrisas Dental Health was elevated due to their longstanding commitment to providing affordable, high-quality dental care and oral health education to underserved populations in San Mateo County. Sonrisas was founded in 2001 to meet the needs of farmworkers and low-income residents. Sonrisas brings extensive experience delivering culturally competent, comprehensive dental services through its clinics in Half Moon Bay and San Mateo. In partnership with Puente de la Costa Sur, Sonrisas has also operated a weekly clinic in Pescadero/La Honda since 2018, providing critical dental care closer to patients' homes and workplaces. As a safety-net provider, Sonrisas offers dental care on a sliding scale for uninsured patients, accepts public dental insurance, and assists eligible individuals with enrollment. This makes Sonrisas uniquely equipped to address systemic barriers to care and advance health equity in the community. As an active participant in the San Mateo County Oral Health Coalition, Sonrisas has demonstrated its commitment to identifying and overcoming these barriers alongside other local stakeholders. In addition, Sonrisas’ experience with SMMC’s dental department further strengthens its ability to serve farmworker patients. Finally, the Sonrisas team’s familiarity with SMMC's registration and electronic health records systems supports continuity of care for farmworkers, and significantly reduces the reporting burden required by this agreement.
County Attorney has reviewed and approved the resolution and agreement as to form.
The resolution contains the County’s standard provisions allowing amendment of the County fiscal obligations by a maximum of $25,000 (in aggregate).
It is anticipated that at least 85% of the patients treated are adults (18+ years).
PERFORMANCE MEASURE:
|
Measure |
FY 2024-25 Estimated |
FY 2025-26 Projected |
|
Percentage of patients treated that are adults (18+ years) |
85% |
85% |
EQUITY IMPACT:
The HCH/FH program is dedicated to providing comprehensive, culturally competent, and accessible healthcare services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and/or farmworkers. The HCH/FH program serves individuals experiencing homelessness and farmworkers, including their dependents. On average, the program serves approximately 5000 unique patients a year (1200 farmworkers, and 3800 homeless). The HCH/FH program ensures continuity and addresses the unique needs of this vulnerable population. By collaborating with community partners, the program continuously adapts to reduce health disparities and promote long-term health outcomes.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The term of the agreement is January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2027. The amount of the agreement is not to exceed $380,646 for the three-year term. Funds in the amount of $63,441 are included in the SMMC FY 2024-25 Adopted Budget. Funds in the amount of $126,882 will be included in the SMMC FY 2025-26 Recommended Budget.
The payment provisions and levels of services in this contract differ from that of the previous contract, due primarily to an annual increase of 3% in the cost per visit. The total not to exceed amount of the new contract represents a 10% increase compared to that of the previous contract.
Expenses at SMMC are covered by fees for services or third-party payors whenever possible. The portion of expenses for services provided to the medically indigent or to those covered by programs that do not meet the full costs of care is covered by the County’s General Fund contribution to SMMC and is within the existing annual appropriation.
ATTACHMENT:
RFP Matrix