- Text
- LASSEN COUNTY
Health and Social Services Agency
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)
Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) Program
RFP No.: HSS-2026-03
RFP Issue Date: October 13, 2026
RFP Submission Date: November 13, 2026
Issued By: HSS Administration
☒ HSS Administration
1345 Paul Bunyan Road, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8128
☐ Public Guardian/Administrator
1345 Paul Bunyan Road, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8337
☐ Housing & Grants
1445 Paul Bunyan Road, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8309
☐ Behavioral Health
555 Hospital Lane
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8108
☐ Public Health
1445 Paul Bunyan Road, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8183
☐ Community Social Services
1400 Chestnut Street, Ste A
Susanville, CA 96130
LassenWORKS
1616 Chestnut Street
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8152
Child & Family Services
1600 Chestnut Street
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8277
Adult Services
1400 Chestnut Street, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8158
Family Solutions/Wraparound
1400 Chestnut Street, Ste C
Susanville, California 96130
(530) 251 - 8340
Mailing Address:
PO Box 1180
Susanville, California 96130
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REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LASSEN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Contents
I. Intent…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3
II. Background Information…………………………………………………………………………………….3
III. Scope of Services………………………………………………………………………………………………………….4
IV. Schedule of Activities…………………………………………………………………………………….…14
a. Bidders’ Conferences………………………………………………………………………………….15
b. Written Requests for Technical Assistance………………………………………………...15
c. Proposal Opening…………………………………………………………………………………….…16
V. Format of Proposal and Content……………………………………………………………………...16
a. Requirement No. 1: Provider Qualifications and Experience Narrative……….17
VI. Format of Budget Template…………………………………………………………………………….21
VII. Proposal Submission Guidelines………………………………………………………………….....22
VIII. Modification or Withdrawal of Proposals………………………………………………………..22
IX. Selection Process………………………………………………………………………………………….…22
X. Selection Criteria………………………………………………………………………………………….…23
XI. Proposal Review and Evaluation Process…………………………………………………….....23
XII. Eligible Respondents……………………………………………………………………………………….23
XIII. Suspension and Debarment………………………………………………………………………….…24
XIV. Award Process……………………………………………………………………………………………..…25
XV. Cancellation………………………………………………………………………………………………..….25
XVI. Appeal………………………………………………………………………………………………………..….26
XVII. List of Exhibits……………………………………………………………………………………………..…26
Exhibit A16 Proposal Summary and Statement of Responsibility (Signature Page)…….….…27
Exhibit B19 Proposal Checklist/Table of Contents………………………………………………………..….30
Exhibit C20 Budget Template and Narrative……………………………………………………………….…...31
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REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
PROVISION OF CRISIS STABILIZATION UNIT
LASSEN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
RFP No.: HSS-2026-03
RFP Issue Date: October 13, 2026
RFP Submission Date: November 13, 2026
I. Intent
The County is seeking qualified contractors to provide Crisis Stabilization Unit
(CSU) services for individuals referred by Lassen County Behavioral Health. This
solicitation is for the provision of CSU services and does not require the
successful contractor to construct, develop, or establish a new CSU within
Lassen County.
Proposers may provide the required services through an existing, appropriately
licensed and certified CSU or other facility authorized to provide the services
described in this RFP. The facility may be located within Lassen County or
outside Lassen County, provided the proposed location and service delivery
model meet all applicable federal and California requirements and the
requirements of this RFP.
Nothing in this RFP shall be interpreted as requiring the contractor to purchase
property, construct a facility, establish a new CSU, or maintain a physical CSU
location within Lassen County unless specifically proposed by the contractor as
part of its service delivery model.
The term of the Agreement will be for a period of a year and a half beginning
upon contract execution.
All costs incurred in the preparation and submission of proposals and
related documentation will be the responsibility of the respondent.
II. Background Information
Lassen County Behavioral Health (LCBH) (hereafter “County”) is responsible to
administer and provide Crisis Stabilization Services for mental health consumers
including those with co-occurring Disorders through a Crisis Stabilization Unit
(CSU) Program. The CSU Program contractor (hereafter “Contractor”) will
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provide immediate access to crisis intervention, emergency psychiatric
evaluation and medication services for children, adolescents, adults and older
adults in a mental health crisis, and other specialty mental health services as
agreed by County and Contractor.
III. Scope of Service
Scope-of-Services
The contractor shall demonstrate the capability to establish, operate, and maintain a
licensed Crisis Stabilization Unit that provides immediate, short-term behavioral health
crisis intervention services in compliance with all applicable federal, state, county, and
Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) requirements.
Program Purpose
The primary purpose of the Crisis Stabilization Unit is to provide timely, recovery-
oriented, trauma-informed, and person-centered behavioral health crisis services in the
least restrictive setting possible. The CSU shall provide immediate assessment,
psychiatric evaluation, stabilization, treatment, and discharge planning for individuals
experiencing a behavioral health crisis while reducing unnecessary emergency
department utilization, inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, incarceration, and other
restrictive interventions. Services shall emphasize rapid stabilization, coordination of
care, and connection to ongoing community-based behavioral health services. The
goal of crisis stabilization is to avoid the need for inpatient services which, if the
condition and symptoms are not treated, present an imminent threat to the
beneficiary or others, or substantially increase the risk of the beneficiary becoming
gravely disabled.
Required Hours of Operation (24/7/365)
The contractor shall operate the CSU continuously, twenty-four (24) hours per day,
seven (7) days per week, including weekends and all County, State, and Federal
holidays. The CSU shall maintain sufficient clinical, medical, and support staff at all
times to safely assess, stabilize, monitor, and discharge clients. Psychiatric consultation
shall be available at all times either onsite or through approved telepsychiatry services.
The contractor shall secure an appropriate facility that is approved by DHCS.
Facility Requirements
The contractor shall provide a safe, secure, therapeutic, and licensed facility in
accordance with DHCS certification/enrollment requirements applicable to Crisis
Stabilization Services. The facility shall comply with all applicable building, fire, life
safety, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA), and infection prevention requirements. The CSU shall include
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private assessment rooms, observation areas, medication storage, nursing stations,
family meeting areas, staff workspaces, and secure entrances designed to promote
client safety while maintaining a welcoming therapeutic environment.
Crisis Stabilization shall be provided onsite at a licensed 24-hour health care facility or
hospital-based outpatient program, or a provider site certified by the California
Department of Health Care Services to perform crisis stabilization for the facility. BHS
conducts the Medi-Cal site certification for specialty mental health services.
Medical backup services must be available either on site or by written contract or
agreement with a general acute care hospital. Medical backup means immediate
access within reasonable proximity to health care for medical emergencies. Medications
must be available on an as needed basis and the staffing pattern must reflect this
availability.
CSU Licensing Requirements
The contractor shall obtain and maintain all licenses, certifications, permits, and
approvals required under California law prior to providing services. The contractor shall
remain in good standing with all regulatory agencies and shall promptly notify the
County of any licensing deficiencies, corrective actions, sanctions, or investigations.
Requirements for Staffing from CCR, Title 9 §1840.348 (“Crisis Stabilization Staffing
Requirements”)
• A physician shall be on call at all times for the provision of those Crisis
Stabilization Services that may only be provided by a physician.
• There shall be a minimum of one Registered Nurse, Psychiatric Technician, or
Licensed Vocational Nurse on site at all times beneficiaries are present.
• At a minimum, there shall be a ratio of at least one licensed mental health or
waivered/registered professional on site for each four beneficiaries or other
patients receiving Crisis Stabilization at any given time.
• If the beneficiary is evaluated as needing service activities that can only be
provided by a specific type of licensed professional, such persons shall be
available.
• Other persons may be utilized by the program, according to need.
• If Crisis Stabilization services are co-located with other specialty mental health
services, persons providing Crisis Stabilization must be separate and distinct
from persons providing other services.
Target Population
The CSU shall serve children, adolescents, adults, and older adults who are Lassen
County residents or otherwise the responsibility of Lassen County Behavioral Health
and who are experiencing an acute behavioral health crisis appropriate for crisis
stabilization services.
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The target population may include, but is not limited to, individuals experiencing serious
mental illness (SMI), serious emotional disturbance (SED), suicidal ideation or behavior,
acute psychiatric decompensation, co-occurring mental health and substance use
disorders, or other behavioral health emergencies that can be safely and appropriately
assessed, treated, and stabilized within the CSU level of care.
The CSU shall serve eligible individuals regardless of payer source, consistent with
applicable federal and state requirements and the terms of the resulting agreement.
Payer sources may include Medi-Cal, Medicare, private insurance, other third-party
coverage, or County-funded services, as applicable. The Contractor shall verify
coverage and coordinate billing in accordance with Lassen County Behavioral Health
requirements; however, verification of insurance coverage shall not delay or prevent the
provision of medically necessary emergency or crisis stabilization services when
otherwise required by applicable law or contract.
Eligibility Criteria
The contractor shall establish written admission criteria identifying individuals
appropriate for CSU services. Eligible individuals shall require immediate behavioral
health intervention but be medically stable enough to safely receive services within the
CSU. Admission decisions shall be based upon clinical assessment and medical
screening performed by qualified personnel.
All beneficiaries receiving crisis stabilization must receive an assessment of their
physical and mental health. This may be accomplished using protocols approved by a
physician. If outside services are needed, a referral that corresponds with the
beneficiary' s needs will be made, to the extent resources are available.
Exclusion Criteria
The contractor shall establish exclusion criteria identifying individuals whose medical,
surgical, or behavioral needs exceed the capabilities of the CSU. Individuals requiring
intensive medical treatment, inpatient medical hospitalization, or higher levels of
psychiatric security shall be referred to the appropriate level of care without
unnecessary delay.
Referral Sources
The CSU shall accept referrals from multiple referral sources to facilitate timely access
to crisis stabilization services for individuals who meet the CSU's eligibility and
admission criteria. Referrals may originate from within or outside Lassen County,
provided the individual being referred is eligible for services under the terms of this
Agreement.
Referral sources shall include, but are not limited to, self-referrals; family members or
other support persons; Lassen County Behavioral Health; outpatient behavioral health
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providers; substance use disorder treatment providers; primary care providers; law
enforcement agencies; emergency medical services (EMS); emergency departments;
mobile crisis teams; 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline centers; schools; hospitals; other
county behavioral health agencies; and other authorized community or healthcare
partners.
The Contractor shall maintain referral and admission processes that support timely
assessment and access to CSU services and shall not require an individual to obtain a
referral from a specific agency or provider when such referral is not otherwise required
by applicable law, regulation, or the terms of this Agreement.
Walk-in Process
The contractor shall establish procedures allowing individuals to present voluntarily
without an appointment. Walk-in clients shall receive immediate screening to determine
urgency, medical stability, and appropriate level of care. Individuals shall not be denied
assessment solely because they arrive without prior authorization or referral.
Psychiatric Evaluation
Licensed psychiatric providers shall conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations to
determine diagnosis, level of care, treatment recommendations, medication needs, and
ongoing stabilization requirements. Psychiatric services shall be available within
established clinical response times.
Nursing Assessment
Registered Nurses shall complete comprehensive nursing assessments addressing
medical history, vital signs, medications, substance use, physical health concerns, and
ongoing medical monitoring needs throughout the stabilization period.
Medical Screening
All individuals referred to or presenting at the CSU shall receive an appropriate medical
screening to identify acute or emergent medical conditions, intoxication or withdrawal
concerns, or other medical conditions that may affect the individual's ability to safely
receive crisis stabilization services.
The initial medical screening shall be conducted at the CSU, prior to or immediately
upon admission, by appropriately licensed or qualified CSU clinical or medical
personnel acting within their scope of practice and in accordance with applicable laws,
regulations, licensing requirements, and the Contractor's approved policies and
procedures.
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The Contractor shall establish written medical screening criteria and protocols
identifying circumstances in which an individual requires additional medical evaluation
or medical stabilization before admission to, or continued treatment within, the CSU.
When the screening identifies a medical condition that exceeds the CSU's capability or
scope of practice, the Contractor shall coordinate prompt transfer or referral to an
emergency department or other appropriate acute medical facility for further evaluation
and treatment. The Contractor shall coordinate with the receiving facility and Lassen
County Behavioral Health, as appropriate, to support continuity of care and return to the
CSU when clinically appropriate.
A separate emergency department or hospital “medical clearance” shall not be routinely
required as a prerequisite for CSU admission when the individual can be safely
evaluated and treated within the CSU's authorized scope of services. When medical
clearance or stabilization at an acute medical facility is clinically necessary, it shall occur
at the appropriate emergency department or medical facility prior to CSU admission or
through transfer from the CSU, as applicable.
Medication Services
The contractor shall provide medication evaluation, prescribing, administration,
monitoring, education, and medication reconciliation as clinically indicated. Medication
services shall comply with all applicable pharmacy regulations and organizational
policies.
Observation Services
The CSU shall provide continuous observation and monitoring based upon each client's
clinical needs and level of risk. Observation protocols shall include routine
reassessment, documentation, suicide precautions when indicated, and individualized
monitoring levels.
Crisis Counseling
Licensed clinicians shall provide evidence-based crisis intervention services utilizing
trauma-informed, recovery-oriented approaches designed to reduce emotional distress,
improve coping skills, resolve immediate crises, and support stabilization.
Safety Planning
Prior to discharge, clinicians shall collaborate with each individual to develop an
individualized safety plan identifying warning sign, coping strategies, natural supports,
crisis resources, and emergency contacts to reduce future crisis risk.
Discharge Planning
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Discharge planning shall begin upon admission and include coordination of follow-up
behavioral health appointments, medication access, housing needs, transportation,
community resources, and referrals to ongoing treatment providers.
Family Involvement
When clinically appropriate and authorized by the individual, family members,
caregivers, and natural supports shall be involved in treatment planning, education,
discharge planning, and ongoing recovery support.
Peer Support Services
Certified Peer Support Specialists shall provide recovery-focused services including
engagement, wellness coaching, advocacy, education, system navigation, and support
based upon lived behavioral health recovery experience.
Care Coordination
The contractor shall coordinate services with County Behavioral Health, outpatient
providers, primary care, substance use disorder treatment providers, social service
agencies, housing providers, and other community partners to ensure continuity of care.
Follow-up After Discharge
The contractor shall establish procedures for post-discharge follow-up to assess client
stability, reinforce discharge plans, encourage treatment engagement, and address
barriers to ongoing care. Follow-up contacts should occur within established County
performance standards.
Transfer to Psychiatric Health Facility (PHF)
When an individual receiving Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) services is determined to
require inpatient psychiatric hospitalization or another higher level of care, the
Contractor shall work collaboratively with Lassen County Behavioral Health (LCBH) to
identify and secure placement at an appropriate Psychiatric Health Facility (PHF), acute
psychiatric hospital, or other appropriate inpatient psychiatric facility.
The Contractor shall initiate placement efforts as soon as the need for a higher level of
care is identified and shall coordinate with LCBH throughout the placement process.
Coordination shall include, as applicable, communication regarding the individual's
clinical condition, legal status, medical needs, placement barriers, facilities contacted,
transportation needs, and anticipated disposition. The Contractor shall ensure that
necessary clinical and supporting documentation is provided to potential receiving
facilities in a timely manner.
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When Placement Is Not Secured Within the CSU Service Limit: The inability to secure
inpatient psychiatric placement within the allowable CSU service period shall not, by
itself, result in an automatic discharge to the community or automatic transfer to an
emergency department.
If an appropriate inpatient placement has not been secured as the individual
approaches the maximum allowable CSU service period, the Contractor shall
immediately coordinate with LCBH to develop and implement a safe and clinically
appropriate disposition plan. The plan shall be based on the individual's current clinical
condition, medical needs, legal status, risk assessment, and applicable federal and
state requirements.
The disposition may include transfer to an appropriate emergency department or other
facility capable of safely providing the necessary level of care; transfer to a PHF, acute
psychiatric hospital, or other appropriate inpatient setting once placement is secured; or
discharge to the community or a lower level of care when clinically appropriate and
supported by an appropriate safety and follow-up plan.
The Contractor shall not retain an individual in the CSU beyond applicable regulatory or
licensing limitations. The Contractor shall maintain responsibility for active placement
efforts, clinical monitoring, care coordination, and safe transition of the individual until
the individual is appropriately transferred or discharged in accordance with applicable
requirements.
All placement attempts, communications with LCBH and receiving facilities, barriers to
placement, clinical reassessments, and final disposition decisions shall be documented
in the individual's clinical record.
Transfer to Acute Hospital
Individuals who develop medical conditions exceeding CSU capabilities shall be
transferred immediately to an acute care hospital using established emergency transfer
procedures and communication protocols.
Coordination with DMC-ODS Providers
The Contractor shall work collaboratively with Lassen County Behavioral Health (LCBH)
to coordinate with Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS) providers for
individuals with co-occurring substance use disorders. Coordination shall include, as
clinically appropriate, assessment and referral for substance use disorder treatment
services, including withdrawal management (detoxification), residential treatment,
outpatient services, medication treatment when appropriate, and recovery support
services.
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The Contractor shall communicate and coordinate with LCBH regarding identified
substance use disorder treatment needs, referrals, placement efforts, and transitions of
care to promote continuity of services and an appropriate discharge plan.
Coordination with Primary Care
The contractor shall establish communication and referral processes with primary care
providers to promote integrated behavioral and physical health care, medication
reconciliation, follow-up appointments, and management of chronic medical conditions.
Coordination with Tribal Partners
The contractor shall collaborate with Tribal governments, Tribal health organizations,
and Indian Health Service providers to ensure culturally responsive, trauma-informed
services that respect Tribal sovereignty, traditions, and the preferences of American
Indian and Alaska Native individuals receiving crisis stabilization services.
Other
This detailed Scope of Work establishes the minimum operational and clinical
expectations for the contractor and should serve as the foundation for the CSU Request
for Proposals. Proposers should describe in detail how they will meet or exceed each
requirement and provide supporting documentation demonstrating their experience,
staffing, policies, procedures, and operational readiness.
Coordination and Communication with Lassen County Behavioral Health
The Contractor shall maintain timely, consistent, and collaborative communication with
Lassen County Behavioral Health (LCBH) throughout each client's episode of care.
Coordination shall occur in a manner that promotes continuity of care, supports
treatment planning, and facilitates successful transitions between levels of care.
At a minimum, the Contractor shall:
1. Admission Notification
o Notify the designated LCBH representative of all admissions of LCBH-
referred clients as soon as practicable, but no later than one (1) business
day following admission, unless a shorter timeframe is required by law or
mutually agreed upon by the parties.
o Provide admission information including the date and time of admission,
admitting diagnosis or presenting problem, legal status, attending
provider, and anticipated treatment goals, consistent with applicable
confidentiality laws.
2. Care Coordination During Stay
o Maintain ongoing communication with the assigned LCBH staff regarding
the client's clinical status, treatment progress, significant changes in
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condition, medication changes, safety concerns, discharge planning, and
any barriers to successful transition.
o Participate in case conferences, multidisciplinary treatment meetings,
utilization review meetings, or other care coordination activities requested
by LCBH.
o Respond to requests from LCBH for clinical information within one (1)
business day, unless an urgent response is warranted due to client safety
or continuity of care.
3. Discharge Planning
o Initiate discharge planning upon admission and coordinate with LCBH
throughout the client's stay.
o Notify LCBH as soon as discharge is anticipated and collaborate to ensure
appropriate aftercare appointments, medication continuity, referrals,
transportation, and linkage to community-based services.
o Provide a written discharge summary, including diagnoses, treatment
provided, medications, discharge disposition, follow-up recommendations,
and any pending clinical needs, within five (5) business days following
discharge unless otherwise required by contract or regulation.
4. Critical Incidents
o Immediately notify LCBH of any significant incident involving an LCBH-
referred client, including but not limited to death, serious injury, elopement,
abuse or neglect allegations, reportable adverse events, law enforcement
involvement, hospitalization, or other events that may significantly impact
client care or County responsibilities.
5. Availability for Consultation
o Designate a primary program contact and a secondary contact who are
available during normal business hours to facilitate communication with
LCBH.
o Ensure clinical staff are reasonably available to consult with LCBH
regarding client care, discharge planning, and continuity of services.
The Contractor shall comply with all applicable federal and state confidentiality
requirements, including HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, the California Confidentiality of Medical
Information Act (CMIA), and all applicable Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)
requirements when exchanging protected health information.
Billing and Claiming Issues and Guidelines
Medicare billing
Depending on the provider’s status (e.g., Medicare certified) and the client’s clinical
scenario (e.g., receipt of Crisis Stabilization within 72 hours of inpatient services), some
portions of a Crisis Stabilization service may be billed to Medicare
Claiming rules from CCR, Title 9 §1840.322 (“Claiming for Service Functions Based on
Hours of Time.” The following requirements apply for claiming of services based on
time:
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a. Partial blocks of time shall be rounded up or down to the nearest one- hour
increment except that services provided during the first hour shall always be
rounded up.
b. Lockout rules apply from CCR Title 9 §1840.368 for Crisis Stabilization
c. Crisis Stabilization is not reimbursable on days when Psychiatric Inpatient
Hospital Services, Psychiatric Health Facility Services, or Psychiatric Nursing
Facility Services are reimbursed, except on the day of admission to those
services.
d. Crisis Stabilization is a package program and no other specialty mental health
services are reimbursable during the same time period this service is
reimbursed, except for Targeted Case Management.
e. The maximum number of hours claimable for Crisis Stabilization in a 24-hour
period is 23 hours.
Crisis stabilization is an all-inclusive program and no other Rehabilitative Mental Health
Services are reimbursable during the same time period this service is reimbursed.
County Monitoring, Audit, and Oversight
Lassen County Behavioral Health reserves the right to monitor, review, and audit the
Contractor's Crisis Stabilization Unit at any time during the term of the agreement to
ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, county, contractual, licensing,
accreditation, certification, and Medi-Cal requirements.
The Contractor shall cooperate fully with all monitoring and audit activities conducted by
LCBH or its authorized representatives. Such activities may include, but are not limited
to:
• Review of clinical records, treatment documentation, utilization review records,
discharge planning documentation, and quality improvement activities, consistent
with applicable confidentiality laws.
• Review of staffing schedules, personnel qualifications, licenses, certifications,
background clearances, orientation records, competency assessments, and
required trainings.
• Review of policies and procedures, quality assurance activities, performance
improvement plans, incident reports, grievance records, and compliance
documentation.
• Verification of compliance with staffing ratios, program requirements, licensing
standards, DHCS requirements, Medi-Cal regulations, and all contractual
obligations.
• Interviews with administrative staff, clinical staff, and other personnel as
reasonably necessary to evaluate compliance.
• On-site inspections of the facility, including observation of program operations,
safety practices, physical environment, infection control practices, medication
storage and administration procedures, and documentation systems.
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The Contractor shall provide LCBH timely access to records, staff, facilities, and
documentation necessary to complete monitoring or audit activities. Unless responding
to an immediate health or safety concern or suspected fraud, waste, or abuse, LCBH
will generally provide reasonable advance notice of routine monitoring visits.
If deficiencies are identified, the Contractor shall submit a written corrective action plan
within the timeframe specified by LCBH. The Contractor shall implement corrective
actions to the satisfaction of LCBH and may be subject to follow-up monitoring to verify
compliance.
Failure to cooperate with monitoring activities, failure to provide requested
documentation, or failure to correct identified deficiencies may constitute a breach of
contract and may result in corrective action, withholding of payment, suspension of
referrals, or termination of the agreement, consistent with the terms of the contract and
applicable law.
Cultural Competence Compliance
The program must serve clients regardless of diverse racial/ethnic or cultural and
linguistic characteristics and offer culturally specific approaches
IV. Schedule of Activities
The County intends to progress in this procurement in a series of orderly steps.
The schedule that follows has been developed in order to provide adequate
information for bidders to prepare definitive proposals and for the County to fully
consider various factors that may affect its decision. This schedule is subject to
change at the discretion of the County.
Scheduled Activity Proposed Dates
Release of Request for Proposals Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Bidder’s Conference Thursday, October 22, 2026, 1:00
p.m. Conference call available
Last day to submit written requests for
Technical Assistance
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 4:00
p.m.
Proposal Submission
Deadline/Proposal Opening
Friday, November 13, 2026, 4:00
p.m.
Proposal Review and Selection Thursday, December 3, 2026 2:00
p.m.
Notification of Selection Friday, December 11, 2026 12:00
p.m.
Board of Supervisors Approval of
Award and Contract
To be determined
Approximate Contract Start Date To be determined
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A. Bidders’ Conferences:
Bidders’ Conference:
Thursday, October 22, 2026 1:00 p.m.
Lassen County Behavioral Health
555 Hospital Ln
Susanville, CA
Join Teams Meeting
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/220357507293064?p=1u48AH01UpyvePZDCF
Meeting ID: 220 357 507 293 064
Passcode: s6Uo2MV3
A written record of questions asked at the Bidders’ Conferences with responses
by designated County staff will be provided to RFP recipients within five (5)
working days of the Bidders’ Conferences. Attendance at the Bidders’
Conferences is strongly recommended.
B. Written Requests for Technical Assistance:
Requests for technical assistance must be submitted in writing by 4:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 29, 2026 via U.S. Postal Service, email, or fax to:
Lassen County Behavioral Health
Attn: Lori Griffith
555 Hospital Ln
Susanville, CA 96130
lgriffith@co.lassen.ca.us
Fax: 530-251-2668
Responders are encouraged to request technical assistance early in the
process to allow sufficient time for County staff to respond.
The questions submitted after the Bidders’ Conferences and answers will be
provided by the County in writing to all RFP recipients within five (5) days of
the Thursday, October 29, 2026. Such questions and answers issued by the
County shall be sent via email, fax, and/or first-class U.S. Postal Service to
the last known business address of each individual or organization that
received this RFP.
Questions or requests for technical assistance submitted after the deadline of
4:00 p.m., Thursday, October 29, 2026 will not be answered.
The County requires that other county management and employees not be
contacted by bidders during the RFP process. Failure to comply with this
requirement may disqualify those proposals from further consideration.
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Contact is limited to the County RFP Representative listed above for any and
all inquiries.
C. Proposal Opening:
Proposals will be opened publicly at the Lassen County Behavioral Health
office at Friday, November 13, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. The only information
disclosed at the opening will be the identity of the bidders.
V. Format of Proposal and Content
Proposals submitted in response to this RFP must be prepared as and include
the elements indicated below:
Format: Printed in12-point Ariel font, paginated, and submitted with pages
clipped together, not stapled or bound in a folder or notebook.
Proposal Summary and Statement of Responsibility (Signature Page)
(Exhibit A): Providing a clear and concise summary of the proposal, contact
information, certifications, and signature.
Completed Proposal Checklist/Table of Contents (Exhibit B): Completed as
indicated.
Each proposal response must include the following items:
a. Title Page - Title page must show the RFP subject; the vendor’s name; the
name, address, and telephone number of a contact person; and the date of
the proposal.
b. Company Background: The vendor will provide a brief one-page company
description, history, number of employees, summary of financial status and
number of customer implementations vendor currently supports.
c. Executive Background: The vendor will describe in non-technical terms its
electronic health record system, identifying any unique or distinctive features
of the system in which the vendor wishes to bring particular attention. Do
NOT include pricing in this section. Responses are limited to one page.
d. Transmittal Letter - Submit a signed letter briefly addressing your
understanding of the work to be done, the commitment to do the work
detailed within this RFP and a statement explaining why the vendor believes
itself to be best qualified to do the required work.
e. Vendor Representative - Include the name and title of the designated
LASSEN COUNTY, CA REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
CRISIS STABILIZATION UNIT PROGRAM PAGE | 17 RFP NO. HSS-2026-03
individual(s), along with respective telephone number(s) and email
addresses, who will be responsible for answering technical and contractual
questions regarding the proposal.
*****************************************************************************************
PROGRAM NARRATIVE
Please provide written information to each question below. Any question
not answered will be disqualified.
Project Experience and References:
Proposers shall demonstrate their organizational experience, qualifications, and ability
to successfully establish, operate, and maintain a licensed Crisis Stabilization Unit
(CSU) that complies with all applicable federal, state, local, and Department of Health
Care Services (DHCS) requirements. Responses should be specific, comprehensive,
and supported by examples whenever possible.
The proposal shall include, at a minimum, the following information:
Organizational Experience: Describe the organization's experience providing
behavioral health crisis services, including Crisis Stabilization Units, Crisis Residential
Treatment Programs, Psychiatric Health Facilities (PHFs), Mobile Crisis Services,
Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES), or other comparable behavioral health crisis
programs.
Include the following:
• Number of years providing crisis stabilization services.
• Description of programs currently operated.
• Average annual client volume.
• Experience serving rural and frontier communities.
• Experience providing services to Medi-Cal beneficiaries.
• Experience operating under CalAIM and Medi-Cal Specialty Mental Health
Services (SMHS) requirements.
• Experience serving individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance
use disorders.
Key Personnel and Staffing: Identify all key personnel responsible for implementation
and operation of the Crisis Stabilization Unit.
For each individual include:
• Position title
• Professional license and certifications
• Years of experience
• Relevant crisis stabilization experience
LASSEN COUNTY, CA REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
CRISIS STABILIZATION UNIT PROGRAM PAGE | 18 RFP NO. HSS-2026-03
• Responsibilities within the proposed program
• Experience managing behavioral health crisis programs
Identify proposed:
• Program Director
• Medical Director
• Psychiatrist(s)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner(s)
• Registered Nurse(s)
• Licensed Clinical Social Workers
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists
• Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors
• Clinical Psychologists
• Behavioral Health Technicians
• Certified Peer Support Specialists
• Case Managers
• Quality Improvement staff
• Administrative support staff
Include an organizational chart demonstrating reporting relationships and lines of
authority.
Subcontracted Services: Identify all services proposed to be subcontracted. Describe
how subcontracted services will meet all County and DHCS requirements.
Include:
• Name of subcontractor
• Scope of subcontracted services
• Years working together
• Oversight responsibilities
• Quality monitoring process
Program Design and Operational Experience: Describe your organization's approach
to operating a Crisis Stabilization Unit.
Include discussion of:
• Intake process
• Triage proc
- Email
- lgriffith@co.lassen.ca.us
- Pages
- 31
- Phone
- 2203575072
- Excerpt
- LASSEN COUNTY
Health and Social Services Agency
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)
Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) Program
RFP No.: HSS-2026-03
RFP Issue Date: October 13, 2026
RFP Submission Date: November 13, 2026
Issued By: HSS Administration
☒ HSS Administration
1345 Paul Bunyan Road, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8128
☐ Public Guardian/Administrator
1345 Paul Bunyan Road, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8337
☐ Housing & Grants
1445 Paul Bunyan Road, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8309
☐ Behavioral Health
555 Hospital Lane
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8108
☐ Public Health
1445 Paul Bunyan Road, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8183
☐ Community Social Services
1400 Chestnut Street, Ste A
Susanville, CA 96130
LassenWORKS
1616 Chestnut Street
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8152
Child & Family Services
1600 Chestnut Street
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8277
Adult Services
1400 Chestnut Street, Ste B
Susanville, CA 96130
(530) 251 - 8158
Family Solutions/Wraparound
1400 Chestnut Street, Ste C
Susanville, California 96130
(530) 251 - 8340
Mailing Address:
PO Box 1180
Susanville, California 96130
LASSEN COUNTY, CA REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
CRISIS STABILIZATION UNIT PROGRAM PAGE | 2 RFP NO. HSS-2026-03
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LASSEN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Contents
I. Intent…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3
II. Background Information…………………………………………………………………………………….3
III. Scope of Services………………………………………………………………………………………………………….4
IV. Schedule of Activities…………………………………………………………………………………….…14
a. Bidders’ Conferences………………………………………………………………………………….15
b. Written Requests for Technical Assistance………………………………………………...15
c. Proposal Opening…………………………………………………………………………………….…16
V.
