HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 04-05-2016 - 6-e - Request for an Additional 1.0 FTE for a Behavioral Health Social Work Clinical Specialist for Integrated Behavioral Health Services 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: April 5, 2016
Action Agenda
Item No. 6-e
SUBJECT: Request for an Additional 1.0 FTE for a Behavioral Health Social Work Clinical
Specialist for Integrated Behavioral Health Services
DEPARTMENT: Health
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Dr. Colleen Bridger, 919-245-2412
Pam McCall, 919-245-2402
Rebecca Crawford, 919-245-2414
PURPOSE: To approve a Board of Health recommended request for an additional 1.0 FTE (full
time equivalent) position for a behavioral health Social Work Clinical Specialist to support the
continuation of a successful pilot program integrating behavioral and mental health treatment
services into the Health Department's Medical Clinic. The position will cost a total of $6,323 for
the remainder of the current fiscal year and $79,694 for FY 2016-17. The position will be fully
funded using maintenance of effort funds currently paid to Cardinal Innovations for mental
health services.
BACKGROUND: Behavioral and social factors contribute to nearly every cause of death,
illness, and disability (Journal of the American Medical Association 2004). As many as 85% of
physician visits are for problems that have a significant psychological and/or behavioral
component (American Psychological Association 2016). Research has shown that integrating
mental health, substance abuse and primary care services enhances service, improves quality
of care, reduces health care costs, and produces the best outcomes for caring for people with
multiple healthcare needs.
In August 2015, the Health Department initiated integrated behavioral health as a part of the
health department's primary care services. Utilizing a UNC-PrimeCare Masters of Social Work
(MSW) Intern (UNC-PrimeCare interns are masters in social work students trained to work in
primary care settings as behavioral and mental healthcare specialists), the Health Department
piloted providing integrated behavioral health and prime care services in both Department
clinics.
From August 2015 to February 2016, the Health Department UNC-PrimeCare Intern provided
services to 56 patients with mental or behavioral health issues and/or substance abuse.
Through a combination of one-time, integrated (coordinated behavioral and physical health
service) visits and ongoing psychotherapy (4-6 weekly sessions), the MSW Intern addressed
issues ranging from suicidality, postpartum depression, domestic violence and post traumatic
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stress disorder (PTSD) to medication compliance, smoking cessation and anger management.
In one instance, a young woman was having problems keeping her life on track due to adverse
events in her past. She dropped out of school, was using harmful substances and was not being
safe in her social life. After several sessions with the MSW Intern, this client is back in school
and is taking charge of her health and safety.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The total cost for the remainder of the current fiscal year is $6,323,
including salary and benefits. The total cost for FY 2016-17 will be $79,694. The position will
be fully funded for FY 2015-16 and following fiscal years using maintenance of effort funds
currently paid to Cardinal Innovations for mental health services.
SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Social Justice Goals are applicable to this addenda
item:
• GOAL: ENSURE ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
The creation and preservation of infrastructure, policies, programs and funding necessary
for residents to provide shelter, food, clothing and medical care for themselves and their
dependents.
• GOAL: CREATE A SAFE COMMUNITY
The reduction of risks from vehicle/traffic accidents, childhood and senior injuries, gang
activity, substance abuse and domestic violence.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the Board of
Health recommended request for an additional 1.0 FTE for a behavioral health Social Work
Clinical Specialist to be fully funded using Maintenance of Effort funding.