Hawaii Behavioral Health Facility Licensing: Steps and Requirements
Are you planning to open a behavioral health facility in Hawaii? Understanding Hawaii’s specific licensing requirements is essential to ensure your facility meets all state standards and operates legally. Whether you plan to offer Detox, Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), or Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), navigating Hawaii’s regulations and policies can be complex. Let Atlantic Health Strategies help you through every step of the process to get your facility licensed and ready to provide high-quality care in the Aloha State!
In Hawaii, a Certificate of Need (CON) is required for certain types of healthcare facilities, including behavioral health facilities. The CON process is managed by the Hawaii State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA). The purpose of the CON is to ensure that new facilities or expansions meet community needs without duplicating existing services and to control healthcare costs.
- When is a CON Required? A CON is required if you are establishing a new facility, expanding an existing one, increasing bed capacity, or adding new services. This applies to all levels of care, including Detox, Residential, PHP, and IOP.
Licensing requirements for behavioral health facilities in Hawaii depend on whether the services provided are for mental health or substance use disorder (SUD). Different state agencies are responsible for the licensing of each service type.
Licensing for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Facilities
Substance use disorder treatment facilities in Hawaii, including Detox, Residential Treatment, PHP, and IOP, are licensed by the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH), Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division (ADAD).
Detox Facilities: To obtain a license for a detox facility, your facility must provide a medically supervised environment for managing withdrawal symptoms safely, with licensed professionals such as physicians and nurses on-site. Your facility must comply with ADAD standards for safety, staffing, patient care, and facility operations.
Residential Treatment Centers for SUD: Facilities providing residential treatment services for substance use disorders must offer 24/7 care in a structured environment and meet ADAD regulations regarding staffing ratios, individualized treatment plans, safety standards, and program structure.
PHP and IOP for SUD: PHP and IOP facilities providing SUD treatment are also licensed by ADAD. These programs must provide structured, intensive treatment services, including therapy, counseling, and other support, and meet ADAD’s requirements for staffing, therapeutic programming, patient care, and emergency preparedness.
Licensing for Mental Health Facilities
Mental health facilities in Hawaii, including Residential Treatment Centers, PHP, and IOP, are licensed by the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH), Adult Mental Health Division (AMHD).
Residential Treatment Centers for Mental Health: Facilities providing residential mental health services must be licensed by AMHD. These facilities must offer 24/7 care in a structured environment and comply with state standards for staffing, safety, individualized treatment plans, and therapeutic programming.
PHP and IOP for Mental Health: PHPs and IOPs providing mental health services are also licensed by AMHD. These programs must meet the state’s requirements for therapeutic services, staffing, patient safety, and quality care standards.
- Determine the Type of License You Need: Decide whether your facility will provide mental health services or substance use disorder (SUD) services. This decision will guide which agency you need to work with and the specific requirements for your application.
- Apply for a Certificate of Need (CON), if Required: Before submitting your license application, determine if your facility requires a CON. Visit the Hawaii State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA) website to learn more about the CON process and application requirements.
- Review State Regulations: Visit the appropriate agency’s website — ADAD for substance use disorder services or AMHD for mental health services — to understand the latest licensing regulations and requirements for your facility type.
- Prepare Your Application and Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including a detailed description of your program, staffing plans, facility floor plans, and proof of compliance with state health and safety standards.
- Submit Your Application to the Appropriate Agency:
- For mental health facilities (Residential, PHP, IOP): Submit your application to AMHD.
- For substance use disorder facilities (Detox, Residential, PHP, IOP): Submit your application to ADAD.
- Prepare for Inspection: The relevant agency (AMHD or ADAD) will conduct an on-site inspection to ensure your facility meets state standards for safety, patient care, and operational compliance. Be ready to demonstrate adherence to all regulations.
- Receive Your License and Begin Operations: Once your facility passes the inspection and meets all licensing requirements, you will receive your license and can start offering services to the community.
In Hawaii, there are two primary agencies responsible for licensing behavioral health facilities:
Hawaii Department of Health (DOH), Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division (ADAD): ADAD licenses all facilities providing substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services, including Detox, Residential Treatment, PHP, and IOP. ADAD ensures these facilities meet state standards for safety, staffing, program structure, and patient care.
Hawaii Department of Health (DOH), Adult Mental Health Division (AMHD): AMHD licenses all facilities providing mental health services, including Residential Treatment, PHP, and IOP. AMHD focuses on ensuring compliance with state regulations for patient safety, therapeutic services, staffing, and quality of care.
Navigating the licensing process in Hawaii involves multiple steps, including a Certificate of Need (CON) requirement and coordination with different state agencies. Atlantic Health Strategies is here to help you every step of the way. With our extensive experience in guiding facilities through the licensing process in Hawaii, we provide expert support to ensure you meet all state requirements efficiently.
Contact Us Today!
Ready to start your licensing journey in Hawaii? Contact Atlantic Health Strategies today, and let us help you navigate the complexities of state requirements and get your facility licensed quickly and efficiently!
