LAS CRUCES – Doña Ana County commissioners approved an emergency procurement contract Tuesday to continue medical and mental health services at the Doña Ana County Detention Center.
The Board of County Commissioners approved the contract during a special meeting June 2. The emergency contract was awarded to Thrive Medical Services LLC for $4,489,375.
County officials said the emergency action was needed after the detention center’s current provider, YesCare, declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May.
Commissioner Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez said health care services for detainees at the detention center remain a major priority for the county. He said approving the emergency procurement allows the county to continue those services while officials look for a more permanent solution.
Thrive Medical Services was selected from the top three vendors identified for the six-month emergency contract. County officials said the company was chosen after cost proposals were reviewed and Thrive was identified as the most cost-effective option, with one of the shortest turnaround timeframes for assuming operations at the detention center.
The contract is effective immediately. Thrive Medical Services will work with YesCare to transition into its full-time role at the detention center within four to 10 days.
In the meantime, Doña Ana County is working to secure a permanent medical provider for the detention center.
Detention Center Director Bryan Baker is expected to provide biweekly updates to commissioners at each commission meeting to improve transparency and accountability during the transition.
By John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications – john@bravomic.com
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