Behavioral Health Services in Iowa 


1.Program Definition and Services 

Behavioral Health Services in Iowa encompass mental health and substance use disorder treatment services. These include: 

  • Crisis Stabilization Residential Services (CSRS) 
  • Residential Care Facilities for Persons with Mental Illness (RCF/PMI) 
  • Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment 
  • Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) 
  • Access center services 
  • Integrated Services and Supports (Wraparound Services) 

 

2. Regulations 

Behavioral Health Services are governed by: 

  • Iowa Administrative Code (IAC) 441-78.29 for behavioral health services 
  • IAC 441-25.6 for intensive mental health services 
  • Iowa Code Chapter 154D for behavioral science 

 

3. Licensing or Certification

Providers must be enrolled through the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME) to offer behavioral health services. Specific licensing requirements vary by service type. 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) oversees Behavioral Health Services. 

 

5. Application Process 

Providers must enroll through the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME) Provider Enrollment Unit to become a Medicaid provider for behavioral health services. 

 

6. Required Documentation 

Required documentation likely includes: 

  • Completed provider enrollment application 
  • Proof of liability insurance 
  • Staff qualifications and certifications 
  • Business registration documents 
  • Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The exact timeline for approval is not specified in the information provided. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-application process mentioned. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While no mandatory pre-application training is mentioned, staff providing behavioral health services must meet specific qualifications and may require ongoing training. 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • Iowa is implementing a new Behavioral Health Service System starting July 1, 2025 
  • The state is divided into Behavioral Health Districts to ensure equitable access to services 
  • An Administrative Service Organization (ASO) will be responsible for ensuring clear pathways to care within each district 
  • Integrated Services and Supports (Wraparound Services) are designed to address service gaps and help individuals remain in or return to their homes 
  • ACT teams must meet specific composition and staff qualification requirements 

 

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