(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.

Source Note: The provisions of this §301.257 adopted to be effective January 1, 2015, 39 TexReg 10478; transferred effective March 15, 2020, as published in the February 21, 2020 issue of the Texas Register, 45 TexReg 1237