MHSA Issue Resolution Process

LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ACT (MHSA) ISSUE RESOLUTION PROCESS GUIDELINES

This Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Issue Resolution Process (IRP), developed in collaboration with various public mental health stakeholders, provides information regarding the resolution process to address local issues related to MHSA, access to services, and MHSA requirements. DHCS guidelines require that all MHSA issues be documented by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health. All directly operated and contract providers must follow the MHSA Issue Resolution process outlined below.

A. Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (local) Issue Resolution Principles

Issues regarding MHSA should initially be addressed at the local level* (see footer). The local process should be completed in an expedient manner, with decisions being consistent with MHSA statutes and regulations. General principles and processes for a local MHSA issue resolution process should include:

  • The right for an Issue Filer to bring an issue forward.
  • The review of an issue by an impartial body.
  • Written notification of the outcome to the Issue Filer.

B. Issues Appropriate for this Process

  • Allegations of lack of access to appropriate mental health services.
  • Violation of statute or regulations relating to use of MHSA funds.
  • Non-compliance with the General Standards pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code §33202** (see footer).
  • Inconsistency between the approved MHSA Plan and its implementation.
  • Concerns that the local MHSA Community Program Planning Process does not meet requirements of State law and/or regulation.
  • Allegations that the use of MHSA funds will result in supplantation.

C. How to Submit an MHSA Issue

To file a MHSA issue online, use the following link: MHSA Issue Resolution Form

In person filing of an MHSA may be done at: 510 South Vermont Avenue, 1st Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90020.

D. What to Expect When Filing an Issue

  • The MHSA Administration & Oversight Division will investigate the issue and try to resolve it.
  • If the issue is resolved, the Issue Filer will receive a notification of resolution in writing.
  • If the filer does not agree with the local resolution, the filer may file an appeal with the following agencies:
    • Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)
      Department of Health Care Services
      Mental Health Services Division
      Attention: MHSA Issue Resolution Process
      1500 Capitol Avenue, MS 2702
      P.O. Box 997413
      Sacramento, CA 95899-7413
      Phone: (916) 319-9758
      Email: mhsa@dhcs.ca.gov
    • Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission (MHSOAC)
      1325 J Street, Suite 1700
      Sacramento, CA 95814
      Phone: (916) 445-8696
      Fax: (916) 445-4927
      Email: MHSOAC@mhsoac.ca.gov

The IRP is subject to revision as needed.

*As a general rule, DHCS will require that the local issue resolution process be accessed and exhausted but understands that, in some instances, this may not be possible. Each case will be reviewed accordingly.

**Community Collaboration. Cultural Competence, Client Driven, Family Driven. Wellness, Recovery, and Resilience Focused, and Integrated Service Experiences for clients and their families.