HCRS to acquire United Counseling Service of Bennington County

Health Care and Rehabilitation Services of Windham and Windsor Counties is considering a formal agreement to acquire United Counseling Service of Bennington County, with both organizations' boards expected to vote within three to four months. UCS provides mental health care, disability support services, and operates a federally funded Head Start preschool program. HCRS has been providing management oversight of UCS since spring following the organization's struggle to maintain its state designation as a provider for developmentally disabled clients, which is required for Medicaid reimbursements. UCS currently has a 24 percent staff vacancy rate and intends to hire additional employees if the acquisition proceeds.