FY2024 Annual Report

35 NJAMHAA Annual Report FY 2024 contracted agencies. Remote operations included implementing Windows server updates; reviewing server logs, quarantine and third-party spam filter logs and correcting issues that were identified; providing security services; and reviewing antivirus and Malwarebytes cloud service logs, along with other services that did not require in-person site visits. The remote tools also allow the IT Project to help agencies’ staff by connecting to their computers to help with issues and install software when needed. The IT Project assisted agencies with implementing the Avast AV endpoint protection and managed cloud solution, which is available through TechSoup.org at a very reasonable cost, and has been educating provider organizations about the grant program from Microsoft for utilizing its Azure services. The IT Project also continued to assist agencies with recommendations for hardware, software and cloud service purchases and upgrades. To expedite hardware rollouts, hardware was delivered to the NJAMHAA office for configuration and then shipped or personally delivered to agencies. This year, the IT Project staff has increased on-site support when needed and requested by agencies. The IT Project still remains an extremely cost-effective alternative to commercial IT vendors operating in New Jersey. While maintaining and expanding services, the IT Project also continued to assist DMHAS, other areas of the Department of Human Services, the New Jersey Innovation Institute and other stakeholders with the Substance Use Disorder Promoting Interoperability Program. The IT Project conducts outreach to providers to garner interest and “ Bits & Bytes , the IT Project’s newsletter, is an excellent resource. It provides useful, relevant and up-to-the- minute information. It’s an exceptional newsletter and just what CEOs and executive teammembers need to stay on top of cybersecurity and trends in the behavioral health field. ” ReginaWiddows, MA NJAMHAA Board Member President and CEO SERV Behavioral Health System, Inc. assists providers with their electronic health record selection process, and makes recommendations based on the organizations’ sizes and budgets. The IT Project has also assisted with provider outreach, surveys and analysis, and has been a resource for both members and nonmembers who are interested in the program. Recently, the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (Medicaid) requested a copy of the IT Project’s initial survey for the program, as it was of interest to another state seeking to implement a similar incentive program for providers. In addition, the IT Project continued providing help desk services to support the following DMHAS applications: Universal Services Transaction Form, Quarterly Contract Monitoring Reports and the Contract Information Management System.