Subject:
Title
First Amendment to the Funding Agreement with Suncoast Center, Inc. for the Sexual Assault Victim Examination Program.
label
Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Approval and execution by the County Administrator of the First Amendment with Suncoast Center, Inc. (Suncoast) for the Sexual Assault Victim Examination (SAVE) Program.
Body
Strategic Plan:
Ensure Public Health, Safety and Welfare
2.2 Be a facilitator, convener and purchaser of services for those in need.
Deliver First Class Services to the Public and Our Customers
5.3 Ensure effective and efficient delivery of county services and support.
Summary:
This Agreement was identified during the budget process for a 5% increase for the start of Fiscal Year 2017 (FY17). This Agreement provides funding for the SAVE program to provide medical examinations for eligible victims of sexual assault. This Amendment increases the base budget by 5%.
This Amendment also updates administrative language in regard to timing of invoice submission.
Background/Explanation:
The SAVE program serves victims of non-caregiver sexual assault age 13 and over who reside or were assaulted in the County. Sexual assault victims are examined by an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), Registered Nurse (RN), or a Medical Doctor (MD) employed by Suncoast. County funds provide necessary prophylactic medicine and supplies for clients, as well as staff, specialized training, and travel expenses for offsite or clinic-based medical exams. The practitioner or victim advocate can also provide expert witness testimony if a case proceeds to trial.
As a partner of Suncoast, the State of Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County provides lab testing in conjunction with the SAVE program. In addition, Suncoast works closely with law enforcement, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s office, and the Public Defender of the 6th Judicial Circuit to ensure holistic coordination of services. During FY16, the program showed a 65% increase in total clients served in the third and fourth quarters when compared to the first and second reported quarters.
Fiscal Impact:
A 5% increase was approved with the passing of the FY17 budget. The 5% increase of $8,200.00 added to $164,000.00 brings the new “not to exceed” to $172,200.00 for FY17. This amount is budgeted in the Human Services’ General Fund appropriations for FY17.
Delegated Authority:
Authority for the County Administrator to sign this Amendment is granted under Code Section 2-62(a)(2).
Staff Member Responsible:
Lourdes Benedict, Director, Human Services
Partners:
Suncoast Center, Inc.
Florida Department of Health
Attachments:
Suncoast SAVE Amendment 1
FY16 Suncoast Funding Agreement