DATE: November 28, 2023
TO: Board of Supervisors
SUBMITTED BY: David Luchini, RN, PHN, Director, Department of Public Health
SUBJECT: Lab Services Agreement with the County of Madera
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
TITLE
Approve and authorize the Chairman to execute an Agreement with the County of Madera for Public Health Laboratory Testing Services, effective upon execution through October 10, 2028, total not to exceed $250,000.
REPORT
There is no additional Net County Cost associated with the recommended action. Approval of the recommended agreement will facilitate the exchange of services between Fresno County and Madera County Laboratories. This collaborative approach to lab services can result in a more extensive array of accessible tests and services. Partnering enables both jurisdictions to access a wider variety of tests without necessitating the enlargement of their respective facilities. In times of crises, like disease outbreaks or natural calamities, a unified lab service can significantly enhance the response capabilities of both counties by integrating resources and proficiencies. This item is countywide.
ALTERNATIVE ACTION(S):
There are no viable alternative actions. Should your Board not approve the recommended action, the Department will need to explore an alternative option to support the Fresno County Laboratory (Lab). It will also delay critical lab results to residents and delay notification of possible outbreaks.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no increase in Net County Cost associated with the recommended actions. The maximum compensation ($250,000) will be offset with Health Realignment funds and appropriate State grants. Sufficient appropriations and estimated revenues are included in the Department’s Org 5620 FY 2023-24 Adopted Budget and will be included in subsequent budget requests.
DISCUSSION:
Following a flood incident in October of 2018 that affected the Lab, the Department adopted a strategy of utilizing neighboring county public health laboratories to ensure continued testing for Fresno County. In response to the urgent requirements, the Department initiated the dispatch of specimens to Madera County for processing and covered the associated costs using a purchase order.
Since the authority to authorize agreements with other government entities rests solely with the Board of Supervisors, the Department introduced Agreement (A-20-467) to your Board for approval via an Agenda Item on November 24, 2020. Your Board approved this Item, which has since lapsed.
Engaging in collaborative lab services enables the mutual utilization of equipment, facilities, and personnel, resulting in a notable reduction of operational expenses for both Counties. This cooperative approach yields cost efficiencies across procurement, maintenance, and staffing. The collaborative endeavor in lab services also amplifies the diversity of available tests and services. Given the distinct expertise and focal points of each county, partnering allows access to an extended array of tests without necessitating individual facility expansion.
Furthermore, collaborative lab services pave the way for data sharing and joint research endeavors. During emergencies, such as disease outbreaks or natural disasters, a shared lab service can help both counties respond more effectively by combining resources and expertise.
Lastly this collaboration holds the potential to generate fresh insights, knowledge, and innovations that offer advantages to both counties and potentially contribute to broader scientific progress.
REFERENCE MATERIAL:
BAI #50, November 24, 2020
ATTACHMENTS INCLUDED AND/OR ON FILE:
On file with Clerk - Agreement with County of Madera
CAO ANALYST:
Ron Alexander