The N.C. legislature in 2001 approved a comprehensive reform plan aimed at improving public services for residents dealing with mental health problems, developmental disabilities and substance abuse.
The plan, revised each year, aims to get care and treatment to those most in need. Another key element is client or consumer involvement. Under the reform, consumers, families and other stakeholders must actively participate in strategic planning and must have a voice in service-related issues.
Changes in way services delivered
The plan also calls for a major change in the way services are delivered. Currently, Mecklenburg and other area mental health programs contract with outside companies and agencies to provide services. Area programs also directly provide some services using county employees.
Divestiture and privatization Under the reform, local area programs like Mecklenburg's must manage services, instead of directly providing them using their own employees. This means all remaining services still provided by Mecklenburg County employees must be contracted out to independent companies or providers. This divestiture process is expected to take up to 18 months.
It is hoped privatization stimulates competition and leads to competitive pricing and higher-quality care. Some case management services may be retained as the county will act as a safety net for consumers with the most complex cases.
Separation of Roles As part of the move toward privatization, the Mecklenburg Area Mental Health Authority (AMHA) has been separated into two functional groups -- the Local Management Entity (LME) and the Provided Services Organization (PSO).
The LME manages and oversees services, while the PSO provides direct services to residents. To read more about the responsibilities of these organizations, please consult our Briefing Book 2007 (PDF) and the Mecklenburg County Local Business Plan. Learn more about reform on the N.C. Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse web site.
