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Committee questions sustainability for Bridges-to‑Health and free/referral clinic transition; considers Epic–2‑1‑1 integration
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Summary
The committee reviewed a $462,500 request to support free and referral clinics’ transition to green referral clinics, asked how the programs would sustain funding, and heard that United Way seeks $332,000 to integrate Epic with 2‑1‑1 for clinical referrals.
Members reviewed a $462,500 general fund request (gross $9.25M) intended to bring several positions at free and referral clinics to full‑time, update electronic medical records, repair infrastructure and purchase dental equipment to expand access.
Speaker 1 said the request is a Medicaid administrative funding match and has a 50/50 match in some line items. Committee members asked whether additional state funding would let clinics draw down more federal dollars; administration said it depends on match rules and cost allocation and that a clear line‑item explanation should accompany any appropriation.
Dan Farlow, executive director of People’s Health and Wellness Clinic and chair of the Vermont Free and Referral Clinic Board, said VFRC has "a pretty robust fundraising mechanism" and that VFRC and Bridges maintain separate budgets; he also said they are pursuing federal resources and have discussed options with federal lawmakers.
The committee also considered a United Way proposal to integrate Epic with 2‑1‑1 to permit seamless referrals between clinicians and 2‑1‑1 operators. The request (~$332,000) drew questions about whether the Health Information Technology fund could be used; administration staff said it likely qualifies and that the request should be moved to the 2‑1‑1 line in the spreadsheet for clarity.
Members asked staff to ensure any grants to free and referral clinics include clear use‑of‑funds language so that grants awarded match committee intent and do not blur infrastructure versus direct patient care spending.
