1. Program Definition and Services
Behavioral Health Services in Colorado encompass mental health and substance use disorder services. Services include:
- Individual and group therapy
- Medication management
- Inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Crisis intervention
- Case management
- Prevention and early intervention activities
- Recovery support services
2. Regulations
Behavioral Health Services are governed by regulations outlined in 2 CCR 502-1 of the Colorado Code of Regulations
3. Licensing or Certification
Providers must be licensed as Behavioral Health Entities (BHEs) by the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA)
4. Responsible State Agency
The Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) oversees Behavioral Health Services programs
5. Application Process
The application process is conducted through the BHA. Providers must submit a Letter of Intent and complete the licensing application through the Colorado Health Facilities Interactive (COHFI) webpage
6. Required Documentation
Required documentation for providers includes:
- Proof of BHE license
- Staff qualifications and training records
- Policies and procedures manual
- Proof of compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations
7. Timeline for Approval
The timeline for approval is not specifically mentioned in the provided information.
8. Pre-Application Process
Providers must submit a Letter of Intent before initiating the full application process
9. Pre-Application Training
While not mandatory, providers should ensure staff are trained to carry out their duties efficiently, effectively, and competently.
10. Additional Notes
- As of January 1, 2024, the BHA is responsible for oversight of BHE licenses, 27-65 designations, Safety Net approvals, Recovery Support Service Organization (RSSO) licenses, and Controlled Substance Licenses (CSLs)
- The state is currently in a transition period, moving from "legacy" licensing to the new BHE licensing structure
- Behavioral health providers must provide services in a culturally competent manner and employ an integrated care model based on evidence-based practices
- Health First Colorado members have access to comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder services through their regional organization
- The BHA is committed to ensuring all people in Colorado have access to quality mental health and substance use disorder services, regardless of where they live or ability to pay
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