Wake commissioners agree to merge with Durham for mental health treatment agency

RALEIGH -- Wake County commissioners today unanimously agreed to merge with Durham County in a managed-care agency providing care to people with mental health, developmental delay and substance abuse problems.

Wake had additionally asked to become its own agency, but saw its application rejected by the state Department of Health and Human Services last week.

The agreement still requires approval by Durham County's board of commissioners and the state Department of Health and Human Services. Officials of both counties hope the new arrangement will provide better care at lower cost through a per-member, per-month method of funding care.

"We are excited about the possibility of this merger," said Ellen Holliman, area director of the Durham Center. "We think it will be a win-win for Wake County and Durham County."

Carlyle Johnson, head of Wake's current mental health agency, said the arrangement will ensure continuity and high-quality care for consumers.

Representatives of both providers and people with mental illness told commissioners they favored the move. Some clients will receive additional care under this approach, but others could see services reduced if the care is deemed unnecessary, said Denise Foreman, Wake's assistant county manager.