In recent discussions about renewing the contract with Wellpath, the privately contracted healthcare provider for Santa Barbara County’s jail, mental health advocates from the League of Women Voters urged supervisors to prioritize the noncompliance and violations of the contract. Despite being the only option for mental and medical health treatment for incarcerated individuals in the county, there are concerns about whether Wellpath is meeting minimum staffing levels during the COVID pandemic.
The supervisors are facing a difficult decision as they weigh their options for providing adequate healthcare to those in need. While Wellpath has been a reliable provider for many years, recent audits have revealed that they did not meet minimum staffing levels during the pandemic, leaving some inmates without necessary care. Additionally, there have been instances where penalties outlined in the contract were not enforced by the sheriff’s office.
With a deadline of June 30 fast approaching, it is unclear if an agreement can be reached with Wellpath. The complexity of the contract has proved challenging to navigate even after 50 negotiating sessions with them. As such, other options must be explored before making a final decision on extending or ending their contract with Wellpath.
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