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County approves $270,000 consultant contract to plan for indigent-care changes; staff says scope can be downscaled if state action passes
Summary
Santa Barbara County approved an agreement with Precision Health Strategies LLC to help prepare for possible state policy changes affecting indigent-care costs. Staff told supervisors the contract could be adjusted if the state's 'PATH' pilot is adopted, and added that SenCal (regional partners) will be involved on data needs.
The Board approved a consulting agreement with Precision Health Strategies LLC to provide planning and analysis related to indigent-care obligations, in advance of potential state changes that could shift costs to the county.
Chair Nelson and several supervisors emphasized prudence because the county is budgeting for potential liabilities tied to state-level changes. One supervisor described ongoing advocacy at the state level and said the county anticipates a temporary PATH proposal in the Assembly budget that could address some gaps; staff said the contractor would help the county evaluate program design, financial implications, and implementation options.
Assistant CEO told the board that staff is optimistic a state PATH proposal may be reconciled in the budget but cautioned that the state proposal would not cover all the county’s obligations. If the state program is adopted, county staff said they would promptly reevaluate the contract and could “downshift” the scope of consulting work and reduce county expense.
Staff confirmed they have been coordinating with SenCal (regional partners) and expect the contractor to participate in regional meetings to provide data and analysis.
The board voted to approve the agreement after a short exchange; staff noted the contract will be revisited promptly if the state action proceeds.
Why it matters: The agreement is intended to give the county timely analysis and implementation planning for potential changes in how indigent care is financed, a subject that could carry multi‑year fiscal implications. Supervisors sought clarity about contract downscaling and data sources, and staff committed to returning with any necessary revisions if the state program changes county obligations.
Vote: Motion to approve A27 carried (four-fifths requirement met).
