About Us

The Public Authority was established per State mandate to act as Employer of Record for IHSS Providers and operate a Registry of Providers. The County of San Diego Board of Supervisors acts as the Governing Body for the Public Authority. The Public Authority is a separate legal entity from the County, but works as a partner with IHSS, serving IHSS Providers and Consumers.

For information regarding the Public Authority’s Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Recommended budget, please click here.

About the Executive Director

Thomas H. Johnson, MBA, is the Executive Director of the County of San Diego In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Public Authority. The Public Authority provides services to over 34,000+ IHSS caregivers who assist over 40,000+ IHSS recipients throughout San Diego County and is mandated by the State. With more than 19 years of experience in the organization, Thomas has a deep understanding of the needs, challenges, and successes within the IHSS program and its stakeholders.

His core competencies include operational oversight and coordination, policy implementation and compliance, financial management and audits, process improvement and strategic planning, communication with various stakeholders, data analysis and research, evidence-informed health policy, and community engagement. He’s passionate about enhancing the quality and efficiency of IHSS services, promoting the dignity and independence of IHSS recipients, and supporting the professional development and well-being of IHSS caregivers.

Thomas reports to the County Board of Supervisors and the Health and Human Services Agency Director. He also works in close collaboration with Aging & Independence Services executive management staff. Thomas advises and provides staff support to the IHSS/Public Authority Advisory Committee, serves as liaison to various local community groups and State-wide partners, and explains and interprets policies and procedures. He also works collaboratively with the local caregiver union, the United Domestic Workers of America.

As a veteran of the United States Navy, Thomas understands the commitment to serving his country as well as the local San Diego community. He is an active member of the American Society on Aging and the California Association of Public Authorities, where he serves as the President-Elect and holds various other committee positions. He has an MBA with a specialization in Healthcare Administration from National University, and a BS in Workforce Education and Development with a specialization in Education and Training from Southern Illinois University.

Affiliates

The Health and Human Services Agency provides a broad range of health and social services to promote wellness, self-sufficiency, and a better quality of life for individuals and families in San Diego County.

California Association of Public Authorities is a non-profit association comprised of the IHSS Public Authorities in California created to provide proactive leadership to improve the IHSS program in California.

Live Well San Diego is the County of San Diego’s vision for a region that is Building Better Health, Living Safely and Thriving. It aligns the efforts of individuals, organizations and government to help all 3.3 million San Diego County residents live well.