Lehigh County commissioners have decided to retain Magelian Behavioral Health of Pennsylvania Inc. for one more year.

The board voted 7-0 Dec. 17 in favor of Magelian, which has been a county provider for 13 years, providing behavioral health services for county residents who are eligible for medical assistance.

Board Chair Lisa Scheller said residents attending meetings to express concern with the current provider will benefit the quality of services.

"The work that advocates have done is going to lead to better outcomes," he said.

She stressed a "no" vote would result in the board investing time in searching for a new provider.

Scheller also said if Magelian does not produce results in 2015, the board will inform the county administration of its intent to seek another provider.

Commissioner Michael Schware also stressed the board should seek a new provider if Magelian fails to meet the requirements of the new contract.

Commissioner Geoff Brace requested a host of items be included in the contract, including more autism providers, family oversight committee, improvements in communication and manuals relating to care.

Community Care Behavioral Health was the other behavioral managed care organization that submitted a proposal.

A number of concerns surfaced regarding CCBH including its limited use in Pennsylvania and a poor score.

Once the Magelian contract is drafted, commissioners are expected to give formal approval.