County staff reported that off-site medical care, pharmaceuticals and imaging for inmates have cost Bradley County $199,481.39 in the first four months of the fiscal period under the current medical lines. Cassandra, speaking as the medical/staff presenter, said the figure covers contract payments and an "other charges" line that pays for off-site care and all additional medical expenses.

Cassandra said one female inmate who attempted suicide this month required at least a week in the hospital and three surgeries; the final cost is pending application of the county's negotiated pricing with Erlanger. She also said the county previously had an inmate with medication costs of $8,000 per month, and that moving that person back to Alabama should reduce costs. Cassandra noted the planned fall-protection improvements to the HPOD may help reduce certain injuries and related medical spending.

Commissioners asked whether federal inmates are included; Cassandra clarified the county does not pay federal medical care and that federal costs are covered by the federal government. No changes to medical contracts or emergency appropriations were approved at the meeting; staff said they will continue to monitor costs and negotiate pricing where possible.