Title
a. Approve the execution by the County Counsel of an Agreement with Garrett Law LLP in the amount not to exceed $100,000, effective July 1, 2023 through December 31, 2024, for the provision of webinar training services for Health Department staff on patient confidentiality and related compliance topics; and
b. Approve non-standard risk provisions in Agreement, as recommended by the Director of Health.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the County of Monterey Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve the execution by the County Counsel of an Agreement with Garrett Law LLP in the amount not to exceed $100,000, effective July 1, 2023 through December 31, 2024, for the provision of webinar training services for Health Department staff on patient confidentiality and related compliance topics; and
b. Approve non-standard risk provisions in Agreement, as recommended by the Director of Health.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The County of Monterey, Health Department (MCHD) requires specialized assistance with web-based training programs regarding health data systems and compliance with privacy and confidentiality laws for our administrative and clinical staff.
Garrett Law LLP provides training services on a variety of medical/legal topics, including mandated reporting, patients’ rights, ethics, electronic records, general MCHD HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)/CMIA (California Medical Information Act) Policy and federal and state medical confidentiality laws. Garrett Law LLP has an extensive background in Healthcare Risk Management services, as well as nine (9) years of experience assisting MCHD with training and providing consultation.
While this work is not directly in support of a Health Department 2018-2022 Strategic Plan Goals, it is in support of one or more of the ten essential public health services, specifically: 5. Develop policies and plans that support individual and community health efforts. 6.) Enforce laws and regulations that protect health and ensure safety. 8. Assure competent public and personal health care workforce.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Office of County Counsel and Auditor-Controller have reviewed and approved this Agreement as to legal form and fiscal provisions, respectively.
FINANCING:
Appropriations for this agreement are included in the Health Department’s FY 2023-24 Requested Budget. For the fiscal years out, provision will be made in the Requested Budget for each year.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
Check the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives:
☐Economic Development:
• Through collaboration, strengthen economic development to ensure a diversified and healthy economy.
☐Administration:
• Promote an organization that practices efficient and effective resource management and is recognized for responsiveness, strong customer orientation, accountability and transparency.
☒Health & Human Services:
• Improve health and quality of life through County supported policies, programs, and services; promoting access to equitable opportunities for healthy choices and healthy environments in collaboration with communities.
☐Infrastructure:
• Plan and develop a sustainable, physical infrastructure that improves the quality of life for County residents and supports economic development results.
☐Public Safety:
• Create a safe environment for people to achieve their potential, leading businesses and communities to thrive and grow by reducing violent crimes as well as crimes in general.
Prepared by: Shiba Sumeshwar, MA III, 755-4018
Approved by:
______________________________ Date:___________________________________
Elsa Mendoza Jimenez, Director of Health, 755-4526
Attachments:
Board Report
Agreement