El Dorado County Grand Jury 2013-2014 Placerville Psychiatric Unit Health Facility Case Number Gj-13-08

R1

The recently increased physician time with patients should be maintained. Response: The recommendation has been implemented. HHSA has taken measures to secure additional psychiatrist hours by working with County Human Resources to increase Psychiatrist compensation, as well as increased outreach to Psychiatrist candidates through contract services as well as additional recruitment efforts which include outreaching to medical schools and professional publications. However, there is a shortage of psychiatry services throughout the state resulting in ongoing staffing challenges that will need to be addressed on an ongoing basis.

R2

Investigate staff turnover rates; review adjacent area compensation levels and other retention tools as needed. Response: This recommendation has been partially implemented. HHSA implemented a process where all employees are asked to complete an exit questionnaire when they separate from County service. All exit questionnaires are reviewed to identify the reason for the separation and areas where the Agency can improve. In regards to compensation levels, County Human Resources stated they will be undertaking a comprehensive classification and compensation study which will address classification and compensation in equities for all County classifications. It is anticipated this study will begin in FY 2014-15.

R3

County Health and Human Services should focus on providing local placement, in the form of board and care residences, for patients in need of further supervision after being discharged from PHF. Response: This recommendation has been partially implemented. The need for board and care residences and other types of transitional living facilities are a priority and is included in HHSA’s strategic plan. HHSA recently contracted with Summitview to provide a six bed Adult Residential Facility. This facility/program is currently in development and we anticipate will be accepting clients at the end of the calendar year. In addition, in June 2014 HHSA received Board approval of a template lease that will allow HHSA to contract directly with landlords to secure transitional housing where HHSA mental health clients can reside during their treatment and recovery. That being said, the lack of transitional housing and treatment facilities in El Dorado County continues to be a challenge, and work to improve these services is ongoing.