1.Program Definition and Services
Behavioral Health Services in Kentucky are provided by Behavioral Health Services Organizations (BHSO) and include:
- Individual outpatient therapy
- Group outpatient therapy
- Family outpatient therapy
- Collateral outpatient therapy
- Crisis intervention services
- Assessment and service planning
- Psychiatric services
2. Regulations
BHSOs are governed by Kentucky Administrative Regulations, specifically 902 KAR 20:430 and 907 KAR 15:020.
3. Licensing or Certification
BHSOs must be licensed by the Office of Inspector General under the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
4. Responsible State Agency
The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, specifically the Office of Inspector General, is responsible for licensing BHSOs.
5. Application Process
Providers must submit a completed Application for License to Operate a Behavioral Health Services Organization to the Office of Inspector General.
6. Required Documentation
Providers must submit:
- Completed application form
- Proof of compliance with state health and safety standards
- Detailed description of services to be provided
- Staffing plans
- Facility floor plans
- Annual renewal fee of $500
7. Timeline for Approval
While the exact timeline is not specified, providers must submit renewal applications at least 60 calendar days prior to the date of annual renewal.
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no specific pre-application process mentioned in the available results.
9. Pre-Application Training
While not explicitly stated as pre-application training, BHSOs must ensure that staff are qualified behavioral health professionals or practitioners under supervision.
10. Additional Notes
- BHSOs can provide services at extension locations separate from their permanent facility for an additional fee of $250 per extension.
- BHSOs must establish a plan of care for each recipient receiving services.
- Services must be medically necessary and provided in accordance with the recipient's plan of care.
- As of March 2025, Kentucky is piloting a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) demonstration program to provide comprehensive mental health and substance use services.
To get started, click the link to request portal access