200110_Advisory

North Sound Mental Health Administration
ADVISORY BOARD MEETING

North Sound Mental Health Administration
Conference Room
117 North First St., Suite 8
Mt. Vernon, WA 98273
October 16, 2001
1:00 PM

Agenda

1. Call to Order; Introductions, Chair - 5 minutes

2. Revisions to the Agenda, Chair - 5 minutes

3. Approval of September 2001 Minutes, Chair - 5 minutes

4. Comments from the Public - 10 minutes

5. Correspondence and Comments from the Chair - 5 minutes

6. Old Business

a. Executive Director's Report - Chuck Benjamin - 5 minutes
b. Finance Committee - Bob Hart - 5 minutes
c. Strategic Plan Committee -
d. Activities and Liaison Committee -

7. Items To Be Brought Forward To The Board of Directors - Marcia Gunning, Contracts Compliance & Financial Services Manager

a. Consent Agenda
b. Action Items
c. Motions Yet To Be Approved, Chuck Benjamin, Executive Director - 5 minutes

8. New Business - 10 minutes

a. APN Strategic Plan update - Jere LaFollette - 20 minutes

9. Comments from County Advisory Board Representatives - 15 minutes
a. Island
b. San Juan
c. Skagit
d. Snohomish
e. Whatcom

10. Comments from Public - 5 minutes

11. Other Business

a. Request for Agenda Items

12. Adjournment

NOTE: The next Advisory Board meeting will be November 6, 2001, at the NSMHA Conference Room, 117 N. First Street, Suite 8, Mount Vernon.

North Sound Mental Health Administration

NAME: ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN BILSON, CHUCK ALBERTSON, JACK BILSBOROUGH, LORELEI COY, MARY GOOD, MARIE JUBIE, BOB HART, JANET LUTZ-SMITH, EILEEN ROSMAN, JAMES VEST, CHRIS WALSH, JOSSELYN WINSLOW
MEETING DATE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2001
MEETING TIME: 1:00 P.M.
MEETING LOCATION: NSMHA MEMBERS EXCUSED: DEAN STUPKE

MEMBERS ABSENT: DAVE ASHTON, KAY DAY, JOAN LUBBE, JOHN PATCHAMATLA
KEY CONTACT: DAN BILSON
PREPARED BY: MELINDA BOULDIN STAFF: CHUCK BENJAMIN, MELINDA BOULDIN, SHARRI DEMPSEY, MARCIA GUNNING

GUESTS: JERE LAFOLLETTE, NANCY JOAN, MICHELLE PATIENCE-STAAL, TAMARA ZUNDEL

MINUTES

Item #
Item
Discussion
Discussion Leader
Decision(s) Made, Action Taken, Assignments Given

1
Call to Order, introductions
Chair Bilson called the meeting to order at 1:00
Dan Bilson

2
Revisions to the Agenda
Marcia Gunning announced an additional emergency action item requiring action. Chair Bilson added travel discussion to new Business. Ms. Jubie commented on the terrorist attack which took place on September 11th. She stated that in her opinion the Care Crisis Line workers did amazing things along with APN. Took calls from the East coast. Lorelei Coy requested to speak about the NAMI convention during New Business.
Dan Bilson
Melinda Bouldin will draft letter of appreciation to VOA.

3
Approval of August 2001 Minutes

Dan Bilson
Motion: It was moved, seconded and approved to accept the August minutes with the recommended change. (Dean Stupke absent)

It was noted that Dean Stupke was listed as both present and absent in the August Minutes.

4
Comments from the Public
Jere LaFollette commented on recent training which took place on September 13, 2001. This was the first in a series of three. The trainings are offered by APN in conjunction with Region III Division of Developmental Disabilities. He feels the presentation was excellent and looks forward to the remaining trainings on September 27 and November 1. All Advisory Board members are welcome to attend. Mr. LaFollette further reoprted on the Community Farm Project which is slated to be located on land formerly used by Northern State Hospital. FBG monies have been applied for to assist with planning and set up. He stated he is excited to offer this opportunity to mental heatlh consumers in our region. Josselyn Winslow offered a hand out outlining the schedule and offerings planned for the 15th annual Alzheimer Society of Washington conference called "Reaching Through the Cobwebs". She announced that Karl Brimner would be in attendance and encouraged all to attend.
Dan Bilson

5
Correspondence and Comments from the Chair
Chair Bilson welcomed new member James Vest. Mr. Bilson announced the Recovery Model Conference and Board Retreat on November 1 & 2. He accepted, with sadness, the resignation of Betsy Rogers. She has accepted employment and must give up her duties on the Advisory Board. Her resignation opens up a position on the Finance Committee. Mr. Bilson announced Compass Health Forum, October 3 & 4. He also announced that any communication relative to or referring to the Advisory Board must be approved by the Advisory Board, or in the interim by the executive committee, prior to distribution. Mr. Bilson received several comments regarding the informative and pleasurable NAMI Washington Convention held in Everett on September 14 & 15. He offered thanks to all involved, including Jack Bilsborough.
Dan Bilson
Melinda Bouldin will draft letter of appreciation to Betsy Rogers

6
Old Business

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.
Chuck Benjamin

Chair Bilson asked Advisory Board members to approve the new communication policy presented at last month's meeting. Janet Lutz-Smith read the policy aloud.

6.a Executive Director's Report
Chuck Benjamin

6.a Executive Director's Report
Chuck Benjamin

Mr. Benjamin shared his delight with the Advisory Board field trip to SeaMar Visions and Rainbow Center. He announced the Standards of Care manual updates are almost complete. The MIS RFP process is underway, with Marcia Gunning in the lead. It is hoped that evaluations will be done on september 20. Only 2 submissions were received. Mr. Benjamin met with Karl Brimner on September 14. He feels confident and positive about their dialogue. He feels Mr. Brimner has a new understanding of what the NSMHA is about, and that increased consumer involvement is paramount in everything we do. The State is moving in the direction we already are! Mr. Benjamin stated the nighlight of his opening remarks at the NAMI Convention was announcing the OCA poster contest. He called for all to promote the contest in an effort to reduce stigma. Mr. Benjamin spoke briefly on the 2002 NSMHA budget. He announced the November 1 Recovery Model Conference. He is hoping 60% of those in attendance will be consumer, advocates, and families.

6.b Sub Committee Restructure

Chuck Albertson
Mr. Albertson offered laminated copies to each member which outlines the new committee restructure which had been voted on by the full board. The Executive Committee is made up of: Dan Bilson, Marie Jubie, and Eileen Rosman. He called for a show of hands for those wishing to be on the Strategic Plan Committee. They are: Josselyn, Janet, Chuck, Marie, Eileen, Mary, and Dan. Activities and Liaison: Bob, Mary, Chuck, Janet, Joan, Eileen, and Dan. Bob Hart will now serve as Chair of the Finance Committee. Ms. Coy requested clarification; is she being forced to sign up? She is currently serving on the QMOC and Planning Committee. She was assured that she was not being forced to take on more duties. It was brought up that the Advisory Board has representatives on QMOC and the Planning Committee of the Board of Directors. It was requested that this be reflected on the laminated sheet.

Melinda Bouldin will amend the laminated list of committees to reflect members serving on the Planning Committee of the Board of Directors as well as QMOC. Motion to include the Planning Committee and QMOC to the list of Advisory Board consolidated committees. Motion carried.

7

7.a Consent Agenda - none

7.b Action Items
Marcia Gunning

Ms. Gunning directed all to the Emergency Item - Compass Health
NSMHA-Compass-IEP-CCC-01 Amendment 1. Ms. Coy stated that she was stunned by the amount of funding needed for start up. Much discussion surrounded this topic, and it was clarified that most start up costs are "one time" expenses which would not have to be repeated. Ms. Coy stated she was also concerned about the decrease in counseling sessions.

Motion: It was moved, seconded, and approved (with three abstentions) to recommend Board of Director approval of the motion as presented.

Ms. Gunning directed members to Emergency Item - rescind Board Motion #01-056, authorizing a contract between NSMHA and DDD, effective July 1, 2001 - June 30, 2003, AND to enter into contract NSMHA-DDD, #0169-4557, Amendment 1.

Motion: It was moved, seconded and approved to recommend Board of Director approval of the motion as presented.

Ms. Gunning directed members to the motion to authorize the reclassification of Tribal Liaison/Office of Consumer Affairs Manager position to Range 18, and to authorize, effective October 1, 2001 Sharri Dempsey, current Tribal Liaison/Office of Consumer Affairs Manager pay to be Range 18, Step D.

Motion: It was moved, seconded and approved to recommend Board of Director approval of the motion as presented.

7.c Motion Yet To Be Approved Ms. Gunning directed members to the following introduction items: 1. contract #NSMHA-UBH-PSC-01 between North Sound Mental Health Administration and United Behavioral Health Services, effective November 1, 2001 through October 31, 2002. Maximum consideration shall not exceed $30,000; 2. NSMHA 'Framework for all NSMHA Activities"; 3. the NSMHA's "Standards of Care Manual " (Eligibility and Clinical Care Standards).
Marcia Gunning

7
Consent Agenda

Marcia Gunning

8
New Business

Dan Bilson

8
New Business

Dan Bilson

Finance Committee Report
Mary Good

Ms. Good reported the Finance Committee recommends approval of the 2002 Advisory Board budget allocation of $30,000. Ms. Good reported further that the Finance Committee had received a request to donate $5,000 to the Recovery Model Conference. The NSMHA received only $5,000 of the $35,000 requested from a Federal Block Grant. The Committee recommends this donation be made.

Motion: It was moved, seconded, and approved to recommend Board of Director approval of the 2002 Advisory Board budget allocation of $30,000. Motion: It was moved, seconded, and approved to allocate $5,000 to the Recovery Model Conference slated for November 1, 2001.

8.a Statewide RSN Survey Results
Mary Good

Ms. Good presented the results of her statewide survey of the RSNs. She provided handouts to all, which highlighted the services and personnel provided in each RSN throughout the state. Four RSNs did not respond; King, NE, Spokane, and Thurston-Mason. Ms. Good will mail the results to all RSNs statewide.

8.b Skagit County Schools Program
Ms. Patience-Staal

Michelle Patience-Staal and Tamara Zundel gave a brief description of the Northwest School of Innovative Learning, which they run in conjunction with Fairfax Hospital. The program, for students K-12 was outlined in handouts provided by Ms. Zundel, and briefly discussed. Chair Bilson thanked Ms. Zundel and Ms. Patience-Staal for their remarks, and stated he hopes programs of this type can be offered region-wide to our youthful consumers.

8.c Possible joint meeting with NSMHA Board of Directors
Dan Bilson

Chair Bilson expressed his hope that a joint meeting would be held with the NSMHA Board of Directors. Realistically, this will probably take place during the first quarter of 2002.

8.d Travel Time
Dan Bilson

Discussion involved the extremely early departure time for the October 3 trip to the Stakeholder Meeting in Seattle. After discussion, it was decided that overnight lodging be offered to all members for the evening of October 2 to avoid the early departure hour.

Motion: It was moved, seconded, and approved to authorize transportation and lodging to all Advisory Board members planning to attend the October 3 Stakeholder Meeting.

9
Comments from
9.a Island County
Eileen Rosman

County Advisory
no report

Board Reps.
9.b San Juan County
Dean Stupke

no report

9.c Skagit County
Mary Good

A brief meeting was held. Two announcements were made; the Recovery Model Conference on November 1, and the untimely death of Tom Morgan, announced by Tom Sebastian.

9.d Snohomish County
Marie Jubie

Ms. Jubie chaired the meeting. The NAMI convention was discussed, Barb

McFadden discussed aging and adult services. Greg Long gave a report. They will be talking to Karen Kipling about triage centers, doing feasibility study for same. Jack Bilsborough added that approximately 250 people participated in the NAMI convention. He estimated that 20% were consumers. He added that 100 consumers had attended the NAMI picnic in August.

9.e Whatcom County
Chuck Albertson

Mr. Albertson reported that the possibility of a triage center was discussed. Looks like a "go".

10
Comments from

Dan Bilson

Public
None

Ms. Coy offered a "thank you" to all involved in the NAMI Convention. She sees a definite change in attitude. She especially appreciated the fact that Jack Bilsborough and other organizers remained calm and there was no last minute panic. Ms. Coy especially appreciated the sessions in which consumer groups discussed Best Practice as they perceive it. Consumers helping consumers.

11
Other Business

Dan Bilson

Ms. Bouldin will draft a

11.a Request for Agenda Items

Linda Vaughan wishes to give Standards of Care Manual highlights at the October meeting. Jere LaFollette requests 20 minutes on the October agenda to go over the Strategic Plan. Mr. Benjamin announced that the 2002 NSMHA budget is due for completion in October, distributed to all and comments are requested in November.

12
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 3:21.
Dan Bilson

Handouts:
NW School of Innovative Learning (Fairfax)
2002 Advisory Board Expenditure Allocation Recommendation
DDD/MH Collaborative Systems Training
"Reaching Through the Cobwebs"
Statewide RSN Survey Results
Handouts provided by Ms. Jubie during pre-meeting ADA presentation
October 3 Stakeholder Meeting sign-up and flyer

Future Requested Presentations:
Strength Based Treatment
Best Practice
Case Management

MEMORANDUM

DATE: September 27, 2001

TO: NSMHA Advisory Board

FROM: Marcia Gunning
Contracts Compliance & Financial Services Manager

RE: October 25, 2001 NSMHA Board of Director's Agenda

Please find for your review and comment the following that will be discussed with the Board of Directors brought forth at the October 25, 2001 NSMHA Board Meeting.

CONSENT AGENDA
None

EMERGENCY ACTION ITEMS
To authorize Executive Director to enter into professional services contract with Sam MaGill Consulting, Inc. for Recovery: Vision of Hope Conference and Board Retreat Facilitation and Consultation services, effective October 10, 2001 through November 30, 2001. Maximum consideration shall not exceed $5,000.

This contract will enable Sam MaGill to provide facilitation leadership and consulting services, both during the Recovery: Vision of Hope Conference and at the 1.5 day Board Retreat immediately following the conference. He will assist the NSMHA Board Retreat Participants in developing next steps and strategies for implementing a Recovery Model of Care within the NSMHA.

To authorize Executive Director to enter into professional services contract with Wilma Townsend, MSW for Recovery: Vision of Hope Conference and Board Retreat Recovery Model Education, Training and Development services, effective November 1 and 2, 2001. Maximum consideration, including transportation, lodging and meals shall not exceed $4,000.

Ms. Wilma Townsend is considered one of the foremost experts within the United States on the Mental Health Recovery Model of Care. She is the author of "Emerging Best Practices in Mental Health Recovery Consumer Module", which was successfully implemented in the State of Ohio. She is currently assisting mental health systems throughout the US develop and implement successful recovery models of care through.

ACTION ITEMS
To authorize Executive Director to enter into contract #NSMHA-UBH-PSC-01 between North Sound Mental Health Administration and United Behavioral Health Services, effective November 1, 2001 through October 31, 2002. Maximum consideration shall not exceed $30,000.

The current contract with UBH for Medical Director Services sunsets October 31, 2001. This contract purchases the same services at the same rate $135 per hour with the same maximum consideration as the contract.

To approve the NSMHA 'Framework for all NSMHA Activities".

NSMHA's proposed Framework for all NSMHA Activities is the work of a Framework and Prinicples Workgroup. This work group, consisting of various stakeholders including consumers, advocates, county and provider representatives, reviewed the NSMHA 3/99 Framework and Principles Document and recommend the attached modified Framework for all NSMHA Activities, which lays out the core values, principles and key elements of consumer care that will be the basis for all NSMHA activities and contracts.

To approve the NSMHA's "Standards of Care Manual " (Eligibility and Clinical Care Standards).

NSMHA clinical staff facililtated a "Level of Care Manual" review work group. This work group consisted of NSMHA staff and consumer/advocate. They met with various stakeholders including providers and allied systems. The result is a revised clinical manual, the NSMHA Standards of Care Manual (Eligibility and Clinical Care Standards), formally known as Level of Care Manual. The "Standards of Care Manual" was approved by QMOC on August 15, 2001.

ITEMS NOT YET REVIEWED BY THE ADVISORY BOARD
To introduce the NSMHA Preliminary Proposed 2002 Annual Administration Budget.

The proposed NSMHA 2002 Annual Administrative Budget and related materials are being introduced to the NSMHA Board of Directors at their October 25, 2001 meeting. The Preliminary Proposed Budget will be available for public review and comment beginning October 25, 2001.

If you have any questions or concerns you would like to discuss prior to the meeting, please do not hesitate to contact me.

cc: NSMHA Board of Directors
Charles R. Benjamin
County Coordinators
NSMHA Management Team

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
North Sound Mental Health Administration
AND
UNITED BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
CONTRACT # NSMHA-PSC-UBH-01

THIS AGREEMENT is entered into between North Sound Mental Health Administration/PREPAID HEALTH PLAN, 117 North 1st Street, Suite 8, Mount Vernon, Washington 98273 ("NSMHA"), and UNITED BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ("UBH" OR CONTRACTOR"), San Francisco, California.

THE PARTIES MUTUALLY AGREE AS FOLLOWS:

I. Terms and Conditions

A. Term. This Agreement shall take effect November 1, 2001 and shall continue in full force and effect through October 31, 2002.

B. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated in whole or in part by either party for any reason by giving THIRTY (30) calendar days written notice to the other party.

1. Loss of Funding. In the event funding from any source is withdrawn, reduced or limited in any way after the effective date of this Agreement and prior to termination, NSMHA may terminate this Agreement by written notice effective upon Contractor's receipt of written notice. The parties may re-negotiate under new funding limitations and conditions.

2. Breach. This Agreement may be terminated for any breach by either party. The terminating party shall give the breaching party five calendar days written notice to cure the breach. Failure to cure shall cause this agreement to terminate immediately at the end of the five- (5) day period.

C. Amendments. This Agreement may only be amended by written consent of both parties.

D. Compliance with Laws. Contractor shall comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations in performing this Agreement, including, but not limited to, laws against discrimination and conflict of interest laws.

E. Relationship of Parties. Contractor agrees that Contractor shall perform the services under this Agreement as an independent contractor and not as an agent, employee or servant of NSMHA. The parties agree that Contractor is not entitled to any benefits or rights enjoyed by employees of NSMHA. Contractor specifically has the right to direct and control Contractor's own activities in providing the agreed upon services in accordance with the specifications set forth herein. NSMHA shall only have the right to ensure performance.

F. Indemnification. UBH shall defend, hold harmless and indemnify NSMHA and its member counties and employees against any and all claims, liabilities, damages or judgements asserted against, imposed upon, or incurred by NSMHA and its member counties and employees alleged to arise out of the negligent or wrongful acts of UBH or UBH's officers and employees, agents or volunteers.

NSMHA shall release UBH from all claims, liabilities, damages or judgements asserted against, imposed upon, or incurred by UBH that arises out of the wrongful acts of the NSMHA or the NSMHA employees.

G. Resolution of Disputes.

1. The parties wish to provide for prompt, efficient, final and binding resolution of disputes or controversies which may arise under this Agreement and therefore establish this dispute resolution procedure.

2. All claims, disputes and other matters in question between the parties arising out of, or relating to, this Agreement shall be resolved exclusively by the following dispute resolution procedure unless the parties mutually agree in writing otherwise:

a) The parties shall use their best efforts to resolve issues prior to giving written Notice of Dispute.

b) Within ten (10) working days of receipt of the written Notice of Dispute, the parties (or their designated representatives) shall meet, confer, and attempt to resolve the claim within the next five working days.

c) The terms of the resolution of all claims concluded in meetings shall be memorialized in writing and signed by each party.

d) Arbitration. If the claim is not resolved, the parties shall proceed to arbitration as follows:

(1) The parties shall each select one person as arbitrator. Those two arbitrators shall agree on the selection of a third arbitrator.

(2) The dispute shall be promptly resolved on the basis approved by any two of the three arbitrators.

(3) If there is a delay of more than ten (10) days in the naming of any arbitrator, either party can ask the presiding judge of Skagit County to name any remaining arbitrator(s).

(4) The prevailing party shall be entitled to recover from the other party all costs and expenses, including reasonable attorney fees. The arbitrators shall determine which party, if any, is the prevailing party.

(5) The parties agree that in the absence of fraud by one of the parties, the arbitrators' decision shall be binding, final and not appealable to any court of law.

(6) Unless the parties agree in writing otherwise, each unresolved claim shall be considered at an arbitration session which shall occur in Skagit County no later than thirty (30) days after the close of the meeting descried in paragraph b) above.

3. The provisions of this section shall, with respect to any controversy or claim, survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement.

4. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be deemed to give the arbitrators the power to change any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement in any way.

5. Any required advance expenses ordered by the arbitrator and connected with the arbitration proceedings will be paid equally by the parties subject to the later arbitrator's decision which may change the percentage of advance expenses to be paid by either party.

6. If the underlying contract is for employment, any termination clause takes precedence over any other clause in the contract including the dispute resolution clause.

H. Records and Reports. Contractor shall maintain books, records, documents and other evidence which sufficiently and properly reflect all direct and indirect costs expended in the performance of the services described herein. Contractor shall retain all books; records, documents and other material relevant to this Agreement for five years after its expiration and all payment for the contract have been made. The later of the two dates initiates the five-year time frame. All books, records, documents, reports and other data related to this contract shall be subject to inspection, review and/or audit by NSMHA personnel or other parties authorized by NSMHA, DSHS, the Office of the State Auditor, and authorized federal officials during regular business hours and upon demand.

II. Compensation

A. Consideration: Cost reimbursement shall be made only if NSMHA has a fully executed contract on file.

NSMHA shall pay to Contractor $135 per hour For Medical Director Consultation Services. Maximum consideration shall not exceed $30,000 for the duration of this Agreement, as described in Exhibit A.

B. Payment Procedures. Contractor shall submit an invoice by the tenth (10th) of the month after the month in which services were provided. Invoice shall document actual hours worked daily. Preapproved travel shall be reimbursed only when a Travel Expense Voucher has been submitted along with Invoice for the time period of the submitted invoice. Failure to submit an invoice by the tenth (10th) may delay payment for one (1) month.

No invoices will be accepted thirty (30) days after the service. Contractor shall submit a final billing for this Agreement no later than fifteen (30) days after the contract expiration date.

Invoices for services completed but contractually authorized in a retroactive manner must be submitted within fifteen (15) days after the execution of the appropriate contract.

Until notified otherwise, Contractor shall submit all requests for reimbursement to:
North Sound Mental Health Administration
Attn.: Finance Manager
419 S. First Street, Suite 200
Mount Vernon, WA 98273-3806

B. Reimbursed Expenses. Contractor shall be reimbursed for mileage when using personal car on NSMHA business at the standard NSMHA reimbursement rate which shall conform to the currently published mileage rate for business travel deductions set by the Internal Revenue Service for all business related travel. Mileage usage documentation shall be attached to the monthly invoice when applicable. The reimbursement request shall be itemized on the monthly invoice.

III. Service Expectations

A. Contractor shall remain a Board certified MD in psychiatry and have a Washington State Medical license during the term of this Agreement.

B. Contractor shall provide services as set forth in Exhibit A attached.

C. Contractor shall abide by the requirements of Section 1128A(b) of the Act prohibiting Contractors and other providers from making payments directly or indirectly to physicians or other providers as an inducement to reduce or limit services provided to recipients.

IV. Miscellaneous

A. Assignments. Neither party may assign its rights or delegate its performance hereunder to any person or entity without the prior written consent of the other party.

B. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement with respect to the subject matter hereof and there are no other agreements, written or oral, relating to the subject matter hereof.

C. Headings. Paragraphs headings are for convenience and reference only and shall have no effect upon the construction or interpretation of any party of this Agreement.

C. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is found by a court to be invalid, unenforceable or contrary to applicable law, the remainder of this Agreement or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances other than those to which it is held invalid, unenforceable or contrary to applicable law, shall not be affected and shall continue in full force and effect.

D. Notices. All notices pertaining to this agreement shall be written and delivered, by certified U.S. mail or by hand delivery to the addresses shown below. Notices shall be deemed served upon receipt, or three days after postmark if mailed. Notices transmitted by facsimile which are followed immediately by mailing shall be deemed received on the date of the facsimile transmission.

E. Venue. This Agreement shall be construed, both as to validity and performance, and enforced, subject to Paragraph I.H, in accordance with the laws of the State of Washington. The venue of any action brought hereunder shall be Skagit County.

F. Power to Execute. Both parties warrant they have the power and authorization to execute this Agreement and any other documents executed pursuant to this Agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Agreement on the dates set forth below.

FOR NSMHA: FOR CONTRACTOR:

Charles R. Benjamin, Executive Director Date Date

EIN No. / Social Security No.

Approved as to Form for NSMHA:
Basic Form approved by Eugene H. Knapp, Jr. 9/22/99
Attorney at Law Date

EXHIBIT A
North Sound Mental Health Administration
MEDICAL DIRECTOR CONSULTATION SERVICES

PURPOSE:

To provide timely medical consultation services for the NSMHA including clinical and contracting staff communications, doctor to doctor communications, medical necessity review and recommendations, service denial review, grievance issues, medication review, medical practice guidelines, and staff in-service trainings.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Provide medical consultation to NSMHA clinical staff and contracting clinical staff as requested by NSMHA;

2. Consult directly with other physicians as required to represent the NSMHA in clinical disputes, and provide liaison with NSMHA Service Area physicians and agencies as requested;

3. Facilitate medical director's meeting between NSMHA and NSMHA provider agencies on a regularly scheduled basis. These meetings shall discuss policy and procedural issues, clinical standards and best practices, provide feedback and consultation to the NSMHA and to the providers on said issues, and be a forum for debating important clinical and policy issues as the field of psychiatry and managed care evolves;

4. Provide consultation to NSMHA Quality Assurance/Quality Improvement Department and to the Quality Management Oversight Committee (QMOC). Attend QMOC meetings, as scheduled;

5. Establish criteria and procedure for Medical Director review of Critical Incidents, and consult with NSMHA staff regarding Critical Incident Reviews and Urgent Reviews;

6. Establish criteria and procedure for Medical Director review of clinical cases;

7. Provide Professional Testimony as requested by NSMHA in judicial proceedings and clinical consultations in NSMHA grievance proceedings;

8. Provide consultation to the NSMHA Executive Director and staff, regarding such issues as clinical standards, policies, procedures and best practices;

9. Assist the NSMHA with reviewing and assessing the NSMHA Level of Care Manual and clinical questions regarding medical necessity, inpatient admissions, length of stay questions and determinations, service type, duration, service limitations, exceptional needs cases, quality assurance and outcomes, etc., and make recommendations;

10. Provide in-service training for staff on managed care and general clinical issues in order for staff to understand direct service versus care management in a managed care world and to remain current on managed care issues,

11. Provide brief phone consultations within one hour of initial request made via phone/fax by NSMHA staff with extended conversations, if necessary, the same day. Phone consultations shall be available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

12. Conduct clinical reviews of contracted provider clinical records as requested.

AVAILABILITY:

312 Hours for the duration of Contract
* 26 hours per month average
* 6 hours per week average

Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except phone consultations which shall be provided on an as need basis 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Board certified MD in psychiatry
2. Current Washington State Medical License

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

1. Working knowledge of adult and child mental health clinical issues
2. Working knowledge of State of Washington Publicly Funded Mental Health System
3. Familiarity of the of North Sound Mental Health Administration.

FRAMEWORK FOR ALL NSMHA ACTIVITIES

June 13, 2001

The NSMHA proposes the following core values and principles and key elements of consumer care. This framework will be the basis for all NSMHA activities and contracts. It is also intended that all NSMHA activities and sub-contracted services shall be in compliance with applicable RCW, WAC, MHD contract(s) and NSMHA contracts. These assumptions are based on a consumer driven mental health services Recovery Model focusing on strength-based concepts and the provision of responsive, effective, and improved services throughout the region.

CORE VALUES AND PRINCIPLES - KEY ELEMENTS OF CONSUMER CARE

A. Eligibility / Access
* Eligible Consumers shall have timely access to medically necessary Mental Health Services and supports.
* NSMHA requires a no decline policy that assures the provision of medically necessary mental health services to eligible consumers.
* There shall be a single entry point by which services are most easily accessed. Such entry point shall be provided on a 24 hour, 365-day basis throughout the region (including regional crisis line).
* All parts of the mental health system will assist consumers in obtaining access to appropriate services.
* Consumer access to specific mental health support or treatment services shall not be dependent on consumer willingness to participate in other (concurrent) treatment options. Exception: Shelter Plus Care

B. Consumer Services / Consumer Rights
* Consumer services shall, at all times, be provided with dignity, respect, courtesy, and fairness.
* Consumer participation, voice, and satisfaction with services shall be a valued goal.
* Consumer's individual and cultural differences shall be honored through culturally competent service provision.
* Continuity of care shall be provided with seamless access.
* Consumer confidentiality shall be respected and preserved.
* Consumers shall be provided with maximum alternatives and choice in matters of their care.
* There shall be an integrated inpatient/outpatient system.
* Homeless consumers shall be provided with mental health services.
* The NSMHA supports the Mental Health Division Consumer Rights at the provider level
* Active provider outreach and engagement for enrolled or unserved consumers are required.
* Mental Health crisis workers shall have access to current crisis plans and individual treatment plans at all times. The NSMHA supports a meaningful information system for all mental health professionals that provides ready access to information regarding the specific consumer's crisis plans and individualized treatment plans.

* There shall be comprehensive complaint and grievance service made available (and tracked) at all levels of the system.

C. Strength Based Services
* Consumers' skills, capabilities, strengths, and assets will be recognized and utilized in the individual service plan. Services provided in partnership between consumer, provider and other systems.
* Families, communities, and natural supports will be valued and utilized in serving the needs of consumers.
* It is in the best interest for consumers to live as independently as possible in communities and settings of their choice. Consumers' mental health improves when they participate in and increasingly assume responsibility for their own care.
* A range of residential services and housing supports shall be provided, emphasizing least restrictive, stable living options that are age, culturally, and linguistically appropriate. "Housing" is defined in WAC 388.
* Consumers shall be assisted with engaging in meaningful daily activities. This could include volunteerism and active participation in their community and proactive assistance in educational and employment services.

D. Mental health systems and services improve when consumers participate in planning and quality assurance at all levels.
* People with mental illness are best served by people who care about them.

E. The NSMHA and its providers are committeed to safety of:
o Public
o Consumer
o Staff

F. Collaboration
* NSMHA and its contractors will work in collaboration with other systems to meet the needs of the whole person.
* Services shall proactively follow mental health consumers, regardless of setting (wherever they are) in the mental health or physical health system.
* Mentally ill consumers in the justice system shall have access to mental health services.

G. Education

* The importance of community education programs about mental health issues is a core value.
* NSMHA and its providers will educate the public about the scope of available services, service locations, crisis response services, client rights and responsibilities.
* The NSMHA and its providers shall actively promote public education regarding mental health and stigma reduction.

H. Consumers, family members, NSMHA and its contractors shall advocate for consumer rights, funding for services, and quality
* Both NSMHA and its Member Counties provide technical assistance to all parties in the Region.