County panel approves $690,105 renewal for jail health services amid liability concerns
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Summary
The committee approved a $690,105 renewal with Advanced Correctional Healthcare for jail medical services — a $208,122 increase over the current contract — while asking the sheriff’s administration to seek alternatives and to check the contract opt‑out clause.
The Chippewa County Finance, Claims and Accounts Committee on Nov. 10 approved Renewal Option 2 with Advanced Correctional Healthcare, Inc. for jail medical services at a cost of $690,105 annually, representing an increase of $208,122 over the current 84‑hour/week contract of $481,983.
Committee discussion noted liability concerns tied to passing prescription medications to inmates, a responsibility the Sheriff's Office administration said it does not want to assume. The committee also heard that the company has requested an electronic medical record (EMR) system, which would add a one‑time $17,000 cost and about $30,000 in recurring annual expenses.
Commissioner Damon Lieurance moved to approve the renewal and Commissioner Jim Traynor seconded; the motion carried on a voice vote. Members asked Sheriff's Office administration to seek alternative vendors and to check the contract’s opt‑out clause before final implementation.
The decision increases the county’s jail medical services budget and directs staff to evaluate competitive alternatives and contract terms. No specific timeline for implementation was provided during the discussion.
The committee's approval was recorded under agenda materials provided at the Nov. 10 meeting.