As of October 3, 2023, Ohio has implemented new licensing requirements for behavioral health providers under House Bill 33. This regulation requires new providers to obtain national accreditation before applying for their state license. For organizations seeking to operate in Ohio, this means navigating both the accreditation process and state certification requirements to ensure full compliance.
If you’re planning to establish a behavioral health service in Ohio, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Obtain Preliminary Accreditation
Before applying for an Ohio state behavioral health license, new providers must secure preliminary accreditation from a recognized accrediting body, such as:
✔ Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)
✔ The Joint Commission (TJC)
✔ Council on Accreditation (COA)
How to Obtain Preliminary CARF Accreditation
CARF offers a Preliminary Accreditation Survey, which allows organizations to demonstrate that they have the structure and systems in place to provide quality services before fully operating. This step is crucial because Ohio requires accreditation prior to licensing.
To obtain preliminary CARF accreditation, you will need to:
✅ Complete a New Organization Questionnaire – This initiates the accreditation process and connects you with a CARF resource specialist.
✅ Obtain and review the CARF Standards Manual – This document outlines the standards specific to your service type (e.g., outpatient treatment, case management, crisis intervention).
✅ Conduct a self-assessment – Evaluate policies, procedures, and operational readiness against CARF standards to identify any areas for improvement
✅ Submit an application and fees – Formalize your accreditation request with CARF.
✅ Prepare for a preliminary survey – CARF surveyors will assess your organization’s compliance with required standards and readiness for service delivery.
💡 Outcome: A successful preliminary survey results in a one-year accreditation, allowing you to proceed with your state licensure application.
Step 2: Apply for an Ohio Behavioral Health License
With preliminary accreditation secured, you can now apply for your state license through the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS).
Steps to Obtain Licensure in Ohio
📌 Gather required documentation – Prepare policies, staffing plans, service descriptions, and governance documents in compliance with OhioMHAS standards.
📌 Submit your licensure application – Applications must be submitted via the OhioMHAS provider portal.
📌 Complete additional state requirements – Background checks, staff credentialing, and other regulatory conditions must be fulfilled.
📌 Pass the OhioMHAS site inspection – Your facility and operations will be reviewed for compliance with state regulations.
💡 Outcome: Once your license is approved, you are legally authorized to begin serving clients in Ohio.
Step 3: Operate for Six Months While Preparing for Full Accreditation
After securing state licensure, CARF requires providers to operate for at least six months before they can undergo a full accreditation survey. This ensures that providers can demonstrate service delivery and compliance with CARF standards in real-world settings.
Key Focus Areas During the Six-Month Period
📌 Maintain client records – Document services provided, treatment plans, and progress notes to demonstrate adherence to CARF standards.
📌 Ensure staff compliance – Conduct training and ongoing monitoring to ensure staff are following best practices.
📌 Monitor performance outcomes – Collect and analyze data related to service effectiveness and client satisfaction.
📌 Address recommendations from the preliminary survey – Implement necessary improvements to strengthen operations.
💡 Outcome: By the end of this period, your organization will be ready to apply for full accreditation.
Step 4: Apply for Full CARF Accreditation
After six months of service delivery, you are eligible to pursue full CARF accreditation, which provides a three-year accreditation period upon successful completion.
Steps to Achieve Full CARF Accreditation
✅ Update policies and procedures – Reflect operational improvements and any necessary modifications based on real-world service delivery.
✅ Submit an application for full accreditation – Provide all required documentation and pay the necessary fees.
✅ Prepare for the full on-site CARF survey – Surveyors will conduct a comprehensive review of documentation, observe service delivery, and interview staff and clients.
✅ Implement a Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) – Address any findings from the CARF survey to strengthen compliance.
💡 Outcome: Once accredited, your organization will receive a three-year CARF accreditation, ensuring:
✔ Continued regulatory compliance with OhioMHAS and CARF standards
✔ Eligibility for Medicaid and insurance reimbursements
✔ A recognized commitment to high-quality, person-centered care
Final Thoughts
Navigating Ohio’s new licensing and accreditation requirements requires careful planning and adherence to both state and national standards. By following these four essential steps:
✔ Securing preliminary accreditation
✔ Obtaining an Ohio state license
✔ Operating for six months while strengthening compliance
✔ Applying for full CARF accreditation
You can successfully establish your behavioral health organization while meeting all regulatory obligations.
Need Help Navigating Accreditation?
Compass Consultants specializes in CARF accreditation consulting, including:
📌 GAP Analysis & Policy Development – Ensuring alignment with CARF and OhioMHAS standards
📌 Survey Preparation & Compliance Support – Guidance for preliminary and full accreditation surveys
📌 Performance Measurement & Quality Improvement – Helping organizations track outcomes and enhance service delivery
💡 Let us guide you through the process!