1. Define the Program or Service 

Behavioral Health Services in Nebraska include a range of services designed to address mental health and substance use disorders. These services encompass inpatient and outpatient treatments, community-based services, and residential care. The goal is to provide comprehensive support for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery of individuals with behavioral health disorders. 

2. Regulations Governing the Program 

The program is governed by: 

• Nebraska Behavioral Health Services Act (Sections 71-801 to 71-831), which reorganizes statutes related to publicly funded behavioral health services and emphasizes community-based care 

• Nebraska Administrative Code (NAC), which outlines specific regulations for healthcare facilities and services. 

• Nebraska State Statutes 38-2122, 38-2123, 38-314, and 38-316, which mandate licensure requirements for mental health practitioners and alcohol and drug counselors 

3. Licensing or Certification Requirements 

To provide Behavioral Health Services, providers must comply with relevant state licensing requirements. This typically involves obtaining a license for healthcare facilities or becoming a Medicaid provider if services are billed under Medicaid. Mental health practitioners and alcohol and drug counselors must also be licensed by the state 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is responsible for overseeing compliance with behavioral health regulations and licensing for facilities. 

5. Application Process 

The application process involves submitting a completed application to DHHS for facility licensure or becoming a Medicaid provider. While specific online platforms are not detailed, applications typically require original signatures and supporting documents, which may need to be mailed to DHHS. 

6. Required Documentation 

Applicants must provide: 

• A completed application form. 

• Proof of compliance with all applicable Titles of the Nebraska Administrative Code. 

• Documentation showing adherence to standards as described in the Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care Service Provider Agreement. 

• Proof of staff qualifications and training plans. 

• Payment of licensing fees as stipulated in relevant NAC chapters. 

7. Timeline for Approval 

Once a complete application is received, DHHS will review it. The timeline for approval can vary based on the completeness of the application and readiness for any necessary inspections. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no formal pre-license application process; however, applicants should ensure they meet all operational standards and have necessary documentation ready before submitting their application. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While specific pre-application training is not mandated, providers must comply with all applicable regulations and standards. Training may include understanding operational standards, quality assurance, and performance improvement programs. 

10. Additional Notes 

• Behavioral Health Services providers must ensure compliance with federal and state regulations regarding patient privacy (HIPAA) and quality of care standards. 

• Providers participating in Medicaid must comply with Medicaid contracting requirements and standards.