Section 301.257 - Local Network Development(a) Use of resources. An LMHA must maximize funds available to provide services by minimizing overhead and administrative costs and achieving purchasing efficiencies. Strategies that an LMHA must consider in achieving this objective include joint efforts with other local authorities related to authority functions, administrative activities, and service delivery. (b) Establishing a network. Each LMHA must demonstrate a reasonable effort to establish and maintain a network of qualified providers. In developing the network, the LMHA must consider public input, ultimate cost-benefit, and client care issues to ensure individual choice and best use of public funds. (c) Developing a plan. Each LMHA must develop a biennial (2-year) local network development plan (plan) to guide the development of the LMHA's provider network. The plan must reflect local needs and priorities and must be designed to maximize individual choice and individual access to services provided by qualified providers. The plan is a framework for network development based on a biennial assessment of provider availability and is not intended to limit procurement and contracting. LMHAs are expected to consider opportunities for network development that develop between planning periods. Such opportunities include new funding and/or services and inquiries from interested providers. (d) Involving the PNAC. The local PNAC must be actively involved in developing the plan. The local PNAC must receive information and training related to Provider Network Development, including the provisions of this subchapter and Health and Safety Code §§ 533.035, 533.03521, and 533.0358.26 Tex. Admin. Code § 301.257
Adopted to be effective July 5, 2007, 32 TexReg 4000; amended by Texas Register, Volume 39, Number 52, December 26, 2014, TexReg 10480, eff. 1/1/2015; Transferred from Title 25, § 412.754 by Texas Register, Volume 45, Number 08, February 21, 2020, TexReg 1237, eff. 3/15/2020