Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Colleen Chawla, Chief, San Mateo County Health
Jei Africa, Director, Behavioral Health, and Recovery Services
Subject: Agreement with CBIZ Optumas for Consultation Services
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution authorizing an agreement with CBIZ Optumas for consultation services, for the term June 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027, in an amount not to exceed $370,000.
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BACKGROUND:
Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS) provides Outpatient Services for both Mental Health (MH) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) through county-operated clinics and contracted providers using a variety of rate-setting strategies for reimbursement.
In 2024, BHRS began the implementation of CalAIM, introducing new payment reform requirements, infrastructure, and training support to continue to drive the quality of care and a more equitable health system throughout San Mateo County (SMC). One year into the program, BHRS now needs to examine the new CalAIM rate structure and develop a comprehensive provider rate strategy that will ensure a productive and fair reimbursement for both MH and SUD outpatient and inpatient services.
In December 2024, BHRS released a Request for Proposals for the provision of consultation services to develop a comprehensive rate-setting strategy for behavioral health services in SMC. CBIZ Optumas responded and has been recommended for its expertise in data analysis and its collaboration with the County Behavioral Health Directors Association to design a comprehensive CalAIM rate-setting tool.
DISCUSSION:
CBIZ Optumas will develop a strategic rate methodology that will encompass the entire BHRS delivery system rather the current siloed practice that separates MH and SUD services. Because the CalAIM rates set by the California Department of Health Care Services were designed to cover both County and provider expenses, the Med...
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