From the Blog

Purchasing Department Guiding Ethical Values

AltaPointe’s Purchasing Department is charged with managing the relationships with our vendors, assuring them of a full and fair hearing, and maintaining a level playing field with respect to bids, proposals, agreements and contracts.

The Purchasing Department staff are held to a high ethical standard in our relationships with all vendors of AltaPointe.  We believe it is important for you, as a prime trading partner, to understand our vendor policies regarding vendor relationships and our responsibility to enforce those policies.

In addition to being bound by the overall AltaPointe code of conduct and its guidance on gifts and amenities from vendors, Purchasing Department staff cannot accept gifts or amenities from vendors under any circumstances. Please ask your representatives who interact with the AltaPointe Purchasing Department not to offer any gifts or amenities of any value and to avoid placing any of our staff in any situation that could affect their employment with AltaPointe.

When can I make deliveries or appointments?

Refer to the General Guidelines for Vendor Conduct to better understand AltaPointe policies. If you have any questions about these policies and guidelines, email Purchasing@AltaPointe.org

What if I still have a question concerning the purchasing practices at AltaPointe Health?

Our intention is for all interactions with our vendors to be fully transparent. While we have provided clear guidelines, questions may arise.  If you have any questions about these policies and guidelines, email Purchasing@AltaPointe.org.

What happens if my company is unable to agree with these policies?

These policies are closely aligned with AltaPointe’s core values and mission.  It is important that our vendors have a clear understanding of our values and share in the delivery of our mission. Your compliance with these processes and policies will define your role in the AltaPointe Purchasing Department network.

Who do I contact if a customer’s requests may violate my organization’s or AltaPointe’s code of conduct?

Please refer to Guiding Ethical Values. If you still have questions or concerns, contact the Purchasing Department Manager or Director of Finance and Accounting.

What if my customer states they are an approved contract signer?

Please refer to AltaPointe Purchasing Department’s Contracting Policy

Are Purchase Orders required for payment of goods and services?

Yes.  AltaPointe requires that a valid purchase order be issued prior to the delivery of goods or services from every vendor, with the exception of routine orders.

Who are the decision-makers for my company’s product?

The Purchasing Department will consult with our divisions, programs and locations to ensure we have high quality cost-effective products.  However, the contracting and pricing discussions rest with AltaPointe Purchasing Department and upper leadership within Finance & Accounting.

Purchasing Department Mission

As a department of Finance & Accounting, the Purchasing Department will provide procurement expertise to assure the timely acquisition and distribution of goods and services for the continuum in accordance with policies and procedures established by AltaPointe Health Systems, Inc. We are committed to working with all departments of the company to identify, develop, and implement procurement practices that will find the right products and services to meet the support needs of AltaPointe.

Purchasing Department Policies

Contracting Policy

  • Relationships with vendors are managed only through the Purchasing Department.
  • Contract/agreement negotiations are only conducted by the Purchasing Department.
  • No disbursements will be issued without the approval of the Purchasing Department through properly executed Purchase Orders issued prior to the delivery of goods or the performance of services.
  • AltaPointe divisions, programs and locations will obtain the appropriate departmental authorization and contact the Purchasing Department prior to contacting vendors.
  • Contract signing authority is limited to the designated AltaPointe Corporate Officers only.
  • Vendors will adhere to AltaPointe terms & conditions. Any exceptions will need to be reviewed and may promote delays.

Price Parity Policy

  • Vendors will provide pricing consistency across all AltaPointe divisions, programs and locations.
  • Contracts facilitated by the Purchasing Department are applicable to all AltaPointe divisions, programs and locations.

Routine Order Form Policy

  • The Purchasing Department is solely responsible for the addition, deletion, or changes to items on the routine order forms for office and janitorial supplies.
  • The Purchasing Department will not add items where acceptable alternatives are currently in the AltaPointe Purchasing Department order guides.
  • The Purchasing Department will not add items without the additional approval of the upper leadership when additional costs will be incurred.

Vendor Access Policy

  • All vendors must follow each AltaPointe divisions, programs and locations; local access plan, which may include being escorted by AltaPointe staff.
  • Local access plans should include a requirement for the vendor to stipulate the purpose of the visit and whether an advance appointment has been made.
  • The AltaPointe Purchasing Department will assist managers of divisions, programs and locations to insure compliance with their vendor access plans.

No PO – No Pay Policy

  • To ensure AltaPointe pay only for goods and services which have been properly ordered and authorized, invoices must contain a valid PO number for non-routine purchases.
  • The vendor will receive a Purchase Order number from the Purchasing Department prior to any commitment made.
  • Routine purchases for items such as office and janitorial supplies do not require a PO number.

How can a business offer the BayView EAP?

Employers that want to offer their employees a confidential, professional place to receive personal counseling may enter into a contractual agreement with the BayView Employee Assistance Program. BayView EAP provides employers with the appropriate tools to help their employees who are experiencing life problems.

What services are designed for business owners and their employees?

Services offered through BayView include:

  • Screening
  • Assessment
  • Brief solution-focused counseling
  • Crisis intervention
  • Critical incident stress debriefing

Does BayView ever refer patients to other providers?

Yes. BayView’s professional clinicians refer clients to another provider if, after assessment and using best-practice treatment approaches, it is determined that a different level of care is more appropriate. For instance, BayView professionals will refer individuals whose impairment they believe requires a more intensive level of service to another provider.

What are the benefits to employers?

  • Lowers employee absenteeism
  • Reduces labor grievances
  • Helps retain good, productive employees
  • Reduces dollar cost per day by helping employees return to work quickly

Signs/Symptoms an Individual is in Crisis

There are a number of signs and symptoms that may point to an impending crisis for an individual living with a mental illness. The following list includes some behaviors that may indicate the need to ask for help when exhibited:

  • Alcohol or drug use
  • Argumentative
  • Anxious
  • Bizarre behavior
  • Crying
  • Danger to others
  • Danger to self
  • Depressed
  • Erratic behavior
  • Hallucinations
  • Homicidal thoughts
  • Impulsivity
  • Irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Not eating
  • Not sleeping
  • Not taking medications
  • Becomes isolated
  • Paranoid/fearful
  • Restlessness
  • Self-injury/harm
  • Sleeping too much
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Verbal aggression
  • Wandering

What are the benefits to employees?

  • Offers debriefing sessions for crisis intervention and coping with workplace violence, death or accident
  • Assists employees with work performance issues such as: drug or alcohol problems, other health issues, anger management, marital, family, employee, or supervisor conflicts
  • Provides consultation with supervisors/managers regarding managing problem employees
  • Offers U.S. Department of Transportation-approved Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) Assessment at an additional cost

What is a supervisor’s role with BayView EAP?

When a supervisor sees that an employee has problems that continue and do not improve, the supervisor might consider dismissing such an employee. If the company has contracted for an EAP with BayView, supervisors could refer troubled employees for confidential assessment and short-term counseling instead of resorting to termination. Employers should encourage supervisors to refer employees to the EAP when personal issues begin to affect them negatively. This way the company can assist the employee and hopefully retain a valuable worker.

Will discussions with the counselor be kept confidential?

Yes. We require our counselors and staff to maintain confidentiality. This is an ethical obligation we guarantee to all employees. Every counselor abides by this regulation. Written permission must be given before information can be shared.

If an employee seeks help, is his/her job at risk?

No. Using BayView EAP services will in no way jeopardize job security or promotional opportunities.

What are the payment procedures at BayView?

  • A 24-hour cancellation notice (72 hours for psych testing)  is required if you cannot make your appointment.
  • A fee will be charged if BayView does not receive a 24-hour appointment cancellation notice (72 hours for psych testing.) Fees are as follows for missed appointments.
    • $100 therapy
    • $200 prescriber
    • $300 psych testing
  • BayView expects your account to be settled when you arrive for your appointment; otherwise, you will need to reschedule your appointment.
  • Please note that no-show fees do not apply to those eligible for sliding scale fees.

 

What insurance covers BayView services?

Most BayView providers are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Health Care, Aetna, Cigna, Humana/LifeSync, Value Options (Beach Health), Medicare, Healthsprings, Tricare, American Behavioral, and many national EAP carriers.

Also located in Mobile’s BayView office building is Montlimar Outpatient Services, a program primarily dedicated to adults in Mobile County insured by the Alabama Public Education Employees’ Health Insurance Plan (PEEHIP).

Certain insurance plans limit their coverages to particular credentials. Please check with your insurance company for specific coverages on your plan.

All copayments and deductibles are due at the time of service according to your health insurance plan’s allowable amounts. We require full payment at the time of service when a health insurance plan does not consider BayView “in-network.”

What payment methods are accepted?

BayView accepts cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

What should I expect when I call?

A specialist will conduct an assessment and screening over the phone. Subsequent appointments may be made at the BayView Professional Associates’ office where you receive your care.

If after answering a number of questions it is determined that you, your loved one or friend would benefit from another provider or other community agency, AltaPointe will assist you by making the appropriate referral in the community.

What information will I need to supply?

  • Caller’s Name (and/or name of individual in need of services)
  • Date of Birth
  • Home Address
  • Insurance Information
  • Social Security Number
  • Credit card information (for patients not eligible for a sliding scale fee)

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Because we want your experience with AltaPointe to be the best and most beneficial, please complete the Pre-Intake form and bring it with you. You also may be asked to provide or bring the following documents to your appointment:

  • Proof of insurance
  • Proof of residency
  • Medications and medication list
  • Court papers or power of attorney document, if needed
  • Your photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or other government issued ID)
  • Your Insurance Card(s)
  • Your copay and/or deductible amount in full
  • Pre-Intake Form (please complete and bring with you to your first appointment)

How much will EAP services cost an employee?

Zero. In fact, employees are encouraged to use EAP services whenever help is needed or assistance is needed in managing job or family responsibilities. EAP counseling is available for problems that can be resolved in a short time. The number of sessions depends on each particular case and the employer’s contract with BayView. Referrals are made for problems requiring more time.

Ways to Avoid a Crisis

It is important to know how to avoid a crisis whenever possible. The following list of actions can help you remain stable:

  • Take your medications as prescribed
  • Tell the staff members of any symptoms or side effects
  • Keep all scheduled appointments
  • Identify and avoid lifestyle activities that may increase symptoms
  • Learn and use coping skills that work.
  • Go to the doctor when you are sick and for check-ups
  • Develop your spiritual life
  • Make and invest in friends or a support group
  • Develop a relapse-prevention plan with your treatment team

Intensive Outpatient Services for Women

Designed specifically for women, this program meets three times a week and consists primarily of group counseling sessions designed to promote a life free from addiction. Pregnant women always receive priority.

Office Hours:
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. – Monday through Friday

Group Sessions:
8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday

Intensive Outpatient Services (Oasis)

Geared toward the working patients, this program meets four times a week and consists primarily of group counseling sessions designed to promote a life free from addiction. Pregnant women always receive priority.

Office hours:
10 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
9 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Thursday

Group sessions:
5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. – Thursday

Expanded Intensive Outpatient Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders

Designed for patients with mental health issues and substance abuse problem, this treatment addresses these entwined issues with an integrated treatment plan developed to effectively treat both disorders concurrently. Pregnant women always receive priority. This program is offered in Mobile.

Office hours:
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. – Monday through Friday

Group sessions:
8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday

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