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Residents seek clarity as county negotiates new clinic provider after UBMC notice
Summary
After a notice from current provider UBMC saying the clinic contract ends Sept. 25, residents told the Daggett County Commission they were confused and worried about losing jobs; commissioners said negotiations are underway and they intend to encourage the new contractor to retain existing staff.
Daggett County commissioners discussed an imminent change in the county clinic’s management after staff received a notice from the current operator, UBMC, that the provider’s contract will end on Sept. 25.
A resident who visited clinic staff described confusion and fear: “They had no idea what was going on except that they were losing their jobs,” the resident said. Commissioners acknowledged the email but said no contract has been finalized. Chair Kenneth said the commission’s intent is to negotiate with the incoming provider in a way that makes it “worthwhile for the people that are there now to stay and work for the newer outfit.”
Commissioners and staff repeatedly emphasized limits on what could be disclosed while negotiations were underway. Staff said the county issued a request for proposals (RFP/RFQ) to identify prospective clinic operators and that the county’s negotiating position includes an intent to prioritize continuity of services and personnel when possible.
Residents expressed particular concern about Medicare coverage and whether a new contractor would accept the county’s primarily aged patient population; commissioners said Medicare acceptance is regulated at the federal level and that the county would press for continuity but cannot unilaterally guarantee enrollment rules. The commission said it expects to complete negotiations before the contract end date and will announce outcomes once agreements are finalized.
