Behavioral health facilities would change discharge follow-up and licensing steps

A facility must make at least one attempt to follow up with a person after discharge. The follow-up may involve the person, the person’s parent or legal guardian, or the person’s lay person. The facility must attempt follow-up within 72 hours after discharge, excluding weekends and holidays. The facility may use peer support professionals, community behavioral health providers, or the 988 crisis hotline. A facility using a third-party contract must get the person’s authorization for follow-up care. The provision applies after a person is discharged from the covered mental health process. The act’s effective date is subject to the timing and referendum rules described below.

The Behavioral Health Administration must require a building-safety certificate before issuing or renewing a behavioral health license, subject to two exceptions. The rules apply to behavioral health entities seeking a license or renewal under the covered licensing law. An applicant providing only telehealth services does not need the certificate. An applicant providing only outpatient services may use a certificate based on an inspection by a qualifying local fire department instead of the state fire prevention and control division. The Behavioral Health Administration must act within 30 days after receiving all information and documents needed for licensure. These licensing rules apply when the Behavioral Health Administration reviews an application or renewal after the act takes effect.