Each Core Services Agency (CSA) in DC must establish and maintain an internal peer advocacy program, appointing trained peer advocates who are available to inform, advise, and represent consumers filing or considering grievances. CSAs must ensure consumers are aware of and have reasonable access to peer advocacy services. Peer advocates must complete DMH-provided training. This is a transitional requirement until an Independent Peer Advocacy Program is established under a companion rule.
View official source303 CORE SERVICES AGENCY TRANSITIONAL PEER ADVOCACY PROGRAM 303.1 Within thirty (30) days from the effective date of these rules and until such time as DMH notifies MH Providers that an Independent Peer Advocacy Program has been established in accordance with § 302, each Core Services Agency (CSA) shall maintain an internal peer advocacy program. 303.2 Each CSA shall appoint one or more peer advocates who shall be available to provide information and advice to consumers and to act as representatives of consumers who have filed or contemplate filing a grievance. 303.3 Each CSA shall make consumers aware of the availability of peer advocates and shall ensure that consumers have reasonable access to peer advocacy services. 303.4 Each CSA peer advocate shall complete a training course provided by DMH. 303.5 A CSA may elect to establish a permanent peer advocacy program at any time. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 8480 (October 10, 2003).