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Division of Program Administration

The Program Administration Division determines needs, develops annual and long-range plans for the delivery of mental health services, as well as monitoring and evaluating the implementation and delivery of planned services. The Division administers, coordinates and integrates services provided by behavioral health system agencies, ensures coordinated treatment for multiple disabled individuals and the proper transfer of clients between levels of care and institutions. 

Mental Health Services

Mental Health Services, including inpatient care, clinic treatment, continuing day treatment, residential services, case management and a continuum of community support and rehabilitation services are provided to approximately 33,400 persons each month. Services are delivered by 28 community based agencies under contract with the Department of Mental Health. These agencies include the Erie County Medical Center and the Departments of Senior Services and Youth Services. Services are provided by a decentralized network of service providers within urban, suburban and rural areas throughout the county to assure client access to needed services.

Developmental Disability Services

Developmental Disability Services, including work activity day programs and day training programs are provided to approximately 2,050 persons per month. These services are delivered by 5 community based contract agencies. Within day training programs, available services include service coordination to non-Medicaid eligible individuals, senior day activities, independent living skills training, recreation opportunities, legal services and supports for self-advocacy.

Alcohol and Alcohol Abuse Services

Alcohol and Alcohol Abuse Services, including inpatient detoxification, clinic, day rehabilitation and community residential programs, are provided to approximately 11,160 persons per month through 8 community based contract agencies. Community agencies also provide alcohol abuse prevention education information and referral programs in local schools and on behalf of community groups.

Substance Abuse Services

Substance Abuse Services, including inpatient detoxification services, outpatient drug free programs, and methadone maintenance programs, are provided to approximately 3,500 persons annually. These services are provided by 9 community based agencies. In addition, school and community groups receive drug abuse prevention information and referral programs through contract agencies.

The Division of Program Administration receives state aid reimbursement for a percentage of the direct costs of programs and services provided by community based and other agencies under contract with the Department. Additionally, it receives state aid reimbursement for a percentage of the division's program administration costs.

The Division also receives a number of State and Federal grants for mental health, alcoholism and substance abuse programs which are used to supplement the operating budget and provide services that could not otherwise be provided at the same level. Finally, through interfund agreements with the Department of Social Services, the Division contracts for prevention, treatment, and family support services to address the mental disability needs of families eligible under Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF).

DIVISION OF PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION OBJECTIVES:

  • Develop and implement policies and procedures that guide not-for-profit agencies, under County contract, in the implementation of clinical services, support services and management practices consistent with both applicable guidelines and regulations for delivery of state and federally funded programs and effective business practices.
  • Integrate behavioral health service delivery planning, evaluation, resource allocation and quality improvement activities with the necessary information system supports in order to improve outcomes and support behavioral health reform.
  • Collaborate with community stakeholders to identify and address behavioral health service needs and gaps.