Residents who have a run in with a potentially or known rabid animal will have another option for treatment starting June 1.
On Monday, the Human Services Committee approved a contract with Insource Urgent Care that would allow the County Public Health Department to refer clients to Insource.
The contract isn't exclusive. Patients would still be able to go to the emergency room at UMMC or the urgent care clinic at St. Jerome's if they wished.
"Insource offers a lower rate and the feedback we've been getting is it's a better experience," said David Whitcroft, environmental health director. "It's a faster in and out for the patients."
Whitcroft said Insource had sought out the contract and this was an opportunity "to enter into a contract more favorable to us.
The county pays for the initial exam and the first round of treatment, but booster shots are provided by the health department at County Building #2.
"St. Jerome's has worked out really well for us and we have a good relationship, but this is one more option," Whitcroft said.
The full County Legislature will be asked to approve the arrangement at its next meeting.
