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CPMT: Provider shortages, paperwork and attendance rules hamstring use of WRAP funds
Summary
Tazewell County CPMT members said a shortage of behavioral-health providers, long waitlists, and eligibility paperwork are preventing families from using WRAP funds; members agreed to add attendance language to provider contracts and to route provider contract edits to the county attorney.
At its March 25 meeting, the Tazewell County Community Policy and Management Team heard that multiple barriers are limiting local use of WRAP funds for children’s behavioral-health services.
Dr. Michelle Brown told members the county struggles to convert identified service needs into delivered services because there are "a lack of community based behavioral health services providers," long waiting lists when providers are located, and administrative "red tape" to determine family eligibility. She also noted parents sometimes decline in-home services or cannot arrange transport to out-of-school sites where services might be provided.
The discussion led members to focus on contract language as one practical lever. Chase Collins, the county attorney and CPMT member, provided revised wording for Section 4 (Payment and Invoices) of the service agreement with Lutheran Family Services / enCircle Minnick Schools that adds provisions for non-residential unexcused absences and truancy. Dr. Brown recommended including the Tazewell County Schools attendance policy—seven excused absences per semester and 14 per academic year—to clarify when providers should be paid for missed sessions. Members agreed to add contract language addressing attendance-related payment issues.
CPMT members also reviewed requested edits from Centra Bridges Treatment Center for the 2024–2025 service agreement. The team agreed that all provider-requested contract changes should be routed to County Attorney Chase Collins for final approval; Jeff Brintle moved to authorize Collins to review Centra Bridges’ requested edits and all other provider contract changes, and the motion passed unanimously.
The CPMT did not adopt a new funding policy at the meeting; rather, members directed changes to provider agreements and the contract-review process that they expect will reduce payment disputes and clarify responsibilities when clients miss sessions. The group recorded several unanimous votes approving procedural steps and referrals to the attorney for final decisions.
The CPMT next meets April 22, 2024.
