This section establishes the DC Department of Behavioral Health as the Single State Agency responsible for certifying behavioral health stabilization providers in the District. It sets forth certification requirements for community-based programs that treat individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis who do not require hospitalization. No person or entity may operate such a program without DBH certification, and providers must also comply with their Medicaid Provider Agreement with DHCF. DBH staff may conduct announced or unannounced inspections of certified programs.
View official source8000 GENERAL PROVISIONS 8000.1 The Department of Behavioral Health (“Department”) is the Single State Agency responsible for developing and promulgating rules, regulations, and certification standards for mental health and substance use treatment and recovery providers in the District of Columbia (“District”). 8000.2 The purpose of this rule is to set forth the requirements for certification as Department-certified behavioral health stabilization providers. Behavioral health stabilization providers are community-based and treat individuals in the District who are experiencing a behavioral health crisis but who do not require hospitalization. 8000.3 The provisions of this chapter apply to all behavioral health stabilization programs as defined by this chapter unless stated otherwise. 8000.4 Each provider shall meet and adhere to the terms and conditions of its Medicaid Provider Agreement with the Department of Health Care Finance (“DHCF”). 8000.5 No person or entity shall own or operate a behavioral health stabilization program that offers or proposes to offer behavioral health stabilization services unless certified by the Department pursuant to this chapter. 8000.6 The Department shall issue one (1) certification for each provider that is valid only for the programs stated on the certificate. The certificate is the property of the Department and must be returned upon request by the Department. 8000.7 The Department’s staff, upon presentation of proper identification, shall enter the premises of a behavioral health stabilization program to conduct announced or unannounced inspections and investigations. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 1623 (February 5, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Mental Health 22-A DCMR § 8000