We kicked off Step 1 of our long-awaited overhaul of the behavioral health facility licensing requirements this week. A new law passed last legislative session charges us with facilitating “licensure of integrated health programs that provide both behavioral and physical health services.” The new law tells us to adopt rules relating to construction, equipment, sanitation, staffing for medical, nursing and personal care services, and record keeping pertaining to the administration of medical, nursing and personal care services, in accordance with generally accepted practices of health care.
Before we start drafting new rules, we’re anxious to get some ideas from stakeholders. This week we posted an electronic comment page to get input using Survey Monkey. After we review the electronic comments we may meet with representatives of different types of facilities to discuss the current rules and gather more information. If you are interested in participating, please provide contact information.
To help- here are the Current Rules.
Will there be a review of individual licensing of behavioral health practitioner licenses as well? As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan, I’ve been practicing integrative counseling for years now, helping people better manage chronic health conditions and achieve better mental, emotional and physical health. Self-Management techniques work across the board for both physical and emotional disorders. Yet Arizona Behavioral Health Board of Licensing does not recognize hours spent in psycho-education, teaching Chronic Disease Self Management Programs (that are evidence based) and wellness counseling as valid for the Arizona LPC license. I see institutions licensing is being examined. Will there be a date for review of Individual licenses?
Bobbe Taber,
To date, the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health has not made mention of any future plans to modify the elements for review regarding their individual licensees. Questions can be directly posed to Debra Rinaudo, Executive Director of the board. Ms. Rinaudo can be reached at 602-542-1882.