Ohio Administrative Code Title 5122 - Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

Ohio Administrative Code Title 5122 – Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

Overview:

Title 5122 of the Ohio Administrative Code governs the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS). This department oversees the delivery, regulation, and quality control of mental health and addiction treatment services in the state of Ohio. It sets the legal and operational framework for how mental health and substance use services are provided, licensed, and monitored.

Key Areas Covered under Title 5122:

1. Licensing and Certification of Providers

The code defines requirements for agencies and facilities that offer mental health and addiction services.

Agencies must meet standards of care, staff qualifications, safety protocols, and reporting systems.

It includes procedures for inspection, compliance reviews, license renewal, and penalties for violations.

2. Client Rights and Protections

Clients receiving services have clearly defined rights, such as:

The right to privacy and confidentiality.

The right to be treated with dignity.

The right to participate in treatment planning.

The code mandates that providers must post and explain these rights to every client.

3. Service Standards and Requirements

The code sets detailed standards for how different types of services should be provided, such as:

Outpatient services

Residential treatment

Withdrawal management (detox)

Peer support services

Crisis intervention and stabilization

Each service must follow clinical protocols, use qualified personnel, and ensure continuity of care.

4. Involuntary Commitment and Hospitalization

The code outlines the legal procedures for involuntary hospitalization of individuals who are:

A danger to themselves or others

Suffering from a mental illness that impairs their ability to seek treatment

It includes rules about:

Emergency admissions

Court-ordered evaluations

Patient rights during involuntary treatment

5. Data Reporting and Confidentiality

Providers are required to:

Collect and report data on treatment outcomes

Maintain strict confidentiality of client records

Follow both state and federal privacy laws, like HIPAA

6. Use of Restraints and Seclusion

There are strict guidelines for using physical or mechanical restraints and seclusion.

Such measures can only be used as a last resort and must follow:

Documentation

Supervision

De-escalation requirements

7. Medication Policies

The code governs:

Prescribing psychiatric medications

Informed consent

Storage and administration of medications

Monitoring for side effects and adverse reactions

8. Community Mental Health Services

Focuses on supporting people in non-institutional settings, such as:

Housing assistance

Vocational rehabilitation

Case management

Outreach for high-risk populations (e.g., homeless individuals with mental illness)

9. Addiction Services and Recovery Support

Includes standards for:

Alcohol and drug addiction treatment programs

Prevention education

Recovery housing

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) like methadone or buprenorphine

Promotes community reintegration and relapse prevention

10. Collaboration with Courts and Criminal Justice System

Addresses services for individuals with mental illness or addiction who are involved with the legal system.

Includes:

Forensic evaluations

Diversion programs

Jail treatment services

Mental health courts

Summary:

Ohio Administrative Code Title 5122 ensures that mental health and addiction services in Ohio are safe, ethical, and effective. It protects patient rights, sets professional and facility standards, and promotes public health through structured regulations. The goal is to ensure quality care, accountability, and accessibility for individuals facing mental health or substance use challenges.

 

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