Call to Action
Who is impacted?

The clients of Cornerstone Center for Counseling and Discipleship are suffering due to Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (KernBHRS)'s mismanagement. These clients, who depend on timely and reliable substance abuse treatment, are facing significant disruptions. KernBHRS's errors, including rescinded payment claims and retaliatory actions against Cornerstone, have resulted in delayed services and anxiety among clients. The impact is profound, with some clients having relapsed, and others, due to these bureaucratic failures, at risk of severe health consequences, including overdose.

What is at stake?

If these issues persist, the repercussions will be devastating. The ability of Cornerstone to provide essential services is at risk, which means fewer resources for those struggling with substance abuse in Kern County. The disparity in services between West and East Kern County will widen, leaving many without access to the necessary care. Most critically, clients lost their rights to receive care from our facility on July 23, 2024, violating their right to continuity of care, as KernBHRS refuses to renew their contract with Cornerstone. KernBHRS's negligence could lead to more preventable deaths and significant harm to the well-being of vulnerable clients. Without immediate intervention, the situation will only deteriorate, resulting in greater human and financial costs.

Why is now the time to act?

Immediate action is necessary to prevent further harm and ensure that the rights of Cornerstone’s clients are protected. The continuity of care contract, which expired on July 23, 2024, must be renewed without delay to avoid a complete halt in services. Prompt payment for services rendered is also crucial to maintain the operation of Cornerstone and provide uninterrupted care. The current administrative failures highlight systemic issues within KernBHRS that need urgent reform. By acting now, we can safeguard the well-being of those in need, uphold client rights, and ensure a fair and effective behavioral health system in Kern County.

 
Sign the petition to demand immediate action from the Kern County Supervisors' Office, the Assemblyman’s Office, Senator Grove, Congressman Fong, and Governor Gavin Newsom to:

1. Reform the Behavioral Health Board: Implement oversight of KernBHRS to ensure client rights are respected, address the disparity in care between West and East Kern County, and establish new minimum standards for substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. Extend Cornerstone’s substance abuse treatment with a master agreement for two years at previous contract rates to protect client rights to provider choice and person-centered care.
2. Ensure timely payment: Provide payment for services rendered within 90 days. Guarantee prompt payment for services provided by Cornerstone from May 2022 to March 2023, and May 2020 to December 2020.
3. Hold KernBHRS accountable: Place Alison Burrowes, Ana Olvera, and Jessica Armstrong on probation for failing to follow CalAIM guidelines and KernBHRS’s DMC-ODS contract violations. Provide mentorship from counties excelling in person-centered care to improve their practices.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for the rights and well-being of Cornerstone's clients and the community at large, ensuring they receive the care and support they desperately need. Your support will help address the systemic issues within KernBHRS, promote fair and efficient behavioral health services, and prevent further injustices. Let’s come together to demand the necessary reforms and immediate actions that will protect our community and provide the quality care every individual deserves.