HomeMy WebLinkAboutMed Expansion MemoDeschutes County Health Services (DCHS)
Memorandum
To: Tom Anderson, County Administrator
From: DeAnn Carr, DCHS Behavioral Health Deputy Director
Copy: Erik Kropp
Scott Johnson
Date: November 15, 2013
Subj: Staffing considerations in preparation for Medicaid Expansion
For 2014 Medicaid Expansion Pacific Source has estimated a 23% increase in OHP members
(5,333) with 50% of the increase occurring within the first quarter (2,666). Deschutes County
Health Services, Behavioral Health Division, will need to assure that adequate service capacity
exists to meet these increased demands.
In addition to efforts to maximize current internal capacity the following actions are considered
to be necessary steps:
Ensure adequate walk-in Access Team staffing levels.
o Add 1.0 BHS II (QMHP) FTE. Hire as a temporary position (18 months). Use
OHP dollars current in DCBH Fund 270 to support this addition.
Ensure adequate service delivery capacity.
o Need to add 1.0 BHS II (QMHP) FTE Hire as a temporary position (18 months).
Use OHP dollars current in DCBH Fund 270 to support this addition.
In addition to Medicaid Expansion challenges, DCBH and community partners continue to
struggle will recruitment and retention of child serving Licensed Medical Practitioners (LMP).
Current staffing levels are insufficient to meet the level of need. While ongoing recruitment
efforts are a priority additional actions are needed. Use of an RN position to support current
LMP would increase the amount of LMP time available for direct service and enhance the
overall quality of services.
Action: add .5 RN FTE (additional $35,900 annually) Additional cost will be absorbed within
current Child & Family team medical staff budget allocations