Certified Behavioral Health Clinics

The Delaware Health and Social Services, Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) HSS-26-018 for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) targeting Kent and Sussex counties. The procurement seeks experienced providers to implement comprehensive behavioral health services, focusing on nine core service areas including outpatient mental health and substance use disorder treatments for children, families, and adults. Qualified vendors must submit a Vendor Information Package via Bonfire by November 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM EST, which should include a cover letter, detailed service descriptions, qualifications, service capabilities, experience, and pricing. The CCBHC model, established under the Protecting Access to Medicare Act (PAMA) of 2014, aims to provide coordinated, integrated behavioral health services with specific requirements including trauma-informed, person-centered, and recovery-oriented care. Providers must demonstrate ability to conduct community needs assessments, offer services during evening and weekend hours, and provide comprehensive services such as crisis intervention, screening, assessment, treatment planning, and case management. The RFI is not a competitive bid contract but may potentially lead to a future Request for Proposal (RFP).

While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly stated, the RFI suggests a preference for providers with existing CCBHC experience in other states and the capability to fully implement the comprehensive service model. The initiative is supported by planning grants awarded in 2023 and 2025, indicating potential future funding opportunities for selected providers. Although specific award values are not detailed, the document suggests the State of Delaware is exploring new approaches to delivering and reimbursing community behavioral health services. The procurement targets providers capable of serving Kent and Sussex counties, with a focus on expanding access to behavioral health services for Delawareans. Potential vendors must be prepared to meet rigorous staffing requirements, demonstrate expertise in behavioral health services, and show capacity to deliver the full range of CCBHC services, including specialized support for military veterans. The State may use the submitted information to develop standards and policies for future behavioral health service procurement, suggesting this RFI is part of a broader strategic planning process.