How to make an affiliate model work--a case history

Area of Science:

• Community Mental Health
• Healthcare Administration
• Organizational Models

Background:

• The North Shore Community Mental Health Center (NSCMHC) operates a unique service delivery system.
• Traditional models include centralized, umbrella, and lead agency approaches.
• NSCMHC adapted the lead agency model by outstationing staff instead of subcontracting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the NSCMHC's adapted lead agency model.
• To explain the rationale behind outstationing staff.
• To highlight challenges in integrating outstationed staff.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive analysis of the NSCMHC's organizational structure.
• Examination of the affiliation agreement with United Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Shore.
• Case study of hiring and integration processes for outstationed therapists.

Main Results:

• NSCMHC outstations employees to affiliate agencies like UCP.
• Affiliation agreements define roles and responsibilities.
• Outstationed staff faced integration challenges due to minimal visibility and dual employment status.

Conclusions:

• The outstationed model offers a unique approach to community mental health service delivery.
• Clear affiliation agreements are crucial for operational success.
• Addressing integration challenges is key for outstationed staff cohesion.