Who can become a service provider with the ATR Project?
OAD is currently seeking Treatment and Recovery Support service providers for the ATR-II program. Faith-based and community-based providers are encouraged to apply.
In order to become an ATR-II service provider, an agency must be incorporated with the Louisiana Secretary of State as a corporation (for-profit or non-profit) or a limited liability company. The agency must also be licensed and/or certified as appropriate for the services being delivered and have at least a six (6) month history of operation. The ATR-II program utilizes a comprehensive electronic voucher and clinical case record system; therefore, it is also required that service providers have computer and internet access capabilities.
For additional information regarding provider eligibility, please refer to the ATR-II Provider Manual.
How do I become an ATR Provider?
The enrollment application process begins electronically online at the www.la-atr.com/atr2 website. Before starting the application process, make sure that all of the necessary information is readily available to complete the application. For security reasons, the system will not save incomplete facility enrollment applications. Facilities should be prepared to enter the ATR-II Facility Application elements below to complete the online application process:
- Legal Name of Facility
- Physical & Mailing Address
- Federal Tax ID
- Web Address
- Administrator Name, Phone & Email
- Class Code
- Facility Type
- Bank Name & Address
- Bank Account & Routing Numbers
- Target Population
- Services Provided
- Agency License
- Organizational Status
- Staff Credentials
Applicants should carefully enter their e-mail address. An e-mail will be sent to the email address entered on the first screen to verify that the online application was completed successfully. A list of the forms and documents that are required to complete the facility enrollment process will be included in the email. The facility enrollment process is not complete until all of the required paper forms and documents are submitted.
For more detailed information regarding enrollment online, please refer to instructions found in the LA-ATR II User Manual and the ATR-II Provider Manual.
How can my organization become a licensed substance abuse provider?
Treatment facilities and programs providing services in all modalities of care must have a current license and comply with the Substance Abuse-Addiction Treatment Facilities Minimum Standards (LAC 48:I.Chapter 74)
In order to become a licensed substance abuse treatment provider, an organization must apply through the DHH Health Standards Section. Please find their contact information below:
DHH/Health Standards Section
P.O. Box 3767, Baton Rouge, LA 70821
located at 500 Laurel St., Suite 100, Baton Rouge, LA 70801-1811
Hours 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (closed state holidays)
How will the ATR voucher system work?
All ATR vouchers are processed through a web-based electronic data system. The assessment clinician will determine which levels of care and which recovery support services are most appropriate for a client and the system will generate an electronic voucher that is redeemable for the services listed. ATR providers will be required to input daily the services that they have provided in order to be reimbursed for the services on a monthly basis.
The electronic voucher will follow the client throughout his participation with the ATR program. The voucher will be active for six months, and will include all approved treatment and recovery support services.
What is Freedom of Choice?
A significant goal of OAD and the ATR program is to empower consumers by allowing choice from two or more providers qualified to render needed services. It is required that at least one of the options given to ATR consumers be a provider to which they have no religious objection.
Free choice means HAVING OPTIONS ~ Access to Recovery will provide clients with as many options as possible for treatment and recovery support services.
Free choice is INFORMED ~ ATR assessment providers will explain to clients the different treatment and recovery support options available and answer any questions to the best of his or her ability.
Free choice is INDEPENDENT ~ ATR assessment providers will explain to the client that the choice of treatment and/or recovery support service providers is completely up to him or her, and that the voucher can be used for any of the services on the list of recommended choices.
What recovery services will be offered by the ATR Project?
The goal of the ATR program is to support the recovery process through a comprehensive array of services. The ATR program offers OAD the opportunity to provide recovery support services, also known as wrap around services, to further assist individuals and families recover from the disease of addiction. The following recovery support services will be provided:
Where will screenings for potential ATR clients be conducted?
Screenings to receive ATR services will be conducted at various sites around the State. Some of these sites include OAD clinics and contract providers, school-based health clinics, and other community organizations. If someone seeking services is determined to be eligible for ATR services following the screening, then he/she will be referred to an ATR approved provider for an assessment.
How can a client access services in the ATR Program?
Any individual who is interested in receiving services offered by the ATR program can be screened and assessed by an approved ATR Treatment Provider. Once an individual is determined to be eligible and in need of services, the client will be offered Freedom of Choice in selecting his/her Treatment and Recovery Support Service provider(s).
How can we get copies of physician emergency certificate forms (PEC)?
To order the mental health medical forms used by physicians, coroners, clinics, hospitals and other health care provides, please fax your order to 225-342-2578. Your request should contain the name and number of the form, your Bill To information and Ship To information. You will be billed for shipping. If you would like for your order to be Federal Expressed to you, please include your Federal Express Account number. If additional information is needed please contact the Office of Behavioral Health at 225-342-2540.
What is Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling is gambling behavior which causes disruptions in any major area of life: psychological, physical, social or vocational. The term "Problem Gambling" includes, but is not limited to, the condition known as "Pathological", “Disordered” or "Compulsive" Gambling -- an addiction characterized by increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, "chasing" losses, and loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences. Free information and referral assistance is available 24/7 from the state’s helpline at 1-877-770-7867 or websites: http://www.helpforgambling.org and www.dhh.la.gov. Last year, over 1,400 actual calls for help were answered.
Why is problem gambling sometimes referred to as a “hidden” disease?
Problem gambling is sometimes called a hidden disease because you can’t smell it on someone’s breath, or give them a urine test to detect it. Also, the stigma, shame, and guilt associated with the disease make those who have it want to deny it or keep others from finding out. Unfortunately, this also keeps persons from seeking help early in the addiction, prior to major life consequences. Free information and referral assistance is available 24/7 from the state’s helpline at 1-877-770-7867 or www.dhh.la.gov or
http://www.helpforgambling.org.
Are there any screening questions one can use to see if they might have a gambling problem?
Yes, there is a test called the Lie/Bet Questionaire. Here are the questions: 1.) Have you ever felt the need to bet more and more money? or 2.) Have you ever had to lie to people important to you about how much you gambled? If someone answers yes to either one of these, it is recommended they seek the advice of an experienced problem gambling counselor. For information and referral assistance, contact the state’s website http://www.dhh.la.gov or helpline 24/7 at 1-877-770-7867 or http://www.helpforgambling.org.
How many people in LA possibly have problems with compulsive gambling?
The 2008 Louisiana Study of Problem Gambling estimated there were almost 100,000 persons in Louisiana who could have gambling problems that need to be assessed or treated. Unfortunately, very few individuals seek help. However, help is available, and over the last few years, each year about 500 citizens sought free counseling provided by counselors who work for or with DHH/OBH. Yes, counseling is provided to LA citizens free of charge. For information and referral assistance, contact the state’s website at http://www.dhh.la.gov or helpline 24/7 at 1-877-770-7867 or http://www.helpforgambling.org.
Is there a state-funded, residential treatment center specifically for recovery from gambling addiction?
Yes. Louisiana was one of the first states to have a publicly-funded residential treatment facility specifically dedicated to those seeking treatment for problem gambling. The facility is called CORE. That stands for Center of Recovery. It is in a beautifully-restored mansion in Shreveport, LA. It’s an ideal atmosphere for persons to get a great start on their recovery. Over the last few years, CORE has provided treatment to about 130 persons a year. It is free for LA citizens. CORE can be contacted at 318-424-HELP or http://www.centerofrecovery.org.
Is outpatient counseling available?
Yes. Problem gambling is treatable and treatment is effective in minimizing the harm to individuals, their families and society as a whole. Outpatient counseling is available across the state. It is provided to LA citizens free of charge by counselors who work for or with DHH/OBH. For information and referral assistance, contact the state’s website at www.dhh.la.gov or helpline 24/7 at 1-877-770-7867 or http://www.helpforgambling.org.
Can a spouse or significant other obtain assistance even if the identified person with a gambling issue does not want to stop gambling?
Yes. Spouses or significant others can obtain assistance even if the identified person with a gambling issue does not want to stop. Outpatient counseling is available across the state. It is provided by counselors who work for or with DHH/OBH free of charge to LA citizens. For information and referral assistance, contact the state’s website http://www.dhh.la.gov or helpline 24/7 at 1-877-770-7867 or http://www.helpforgambling.org
Are there any self-help recovery programs (like AA and Al-Aon) for compulsive gamblers and their families?
Yes, there is Gamblers Anonymous (GA) and Gam-Anon. LA DHH/OBH strongly encourages participation in these support groups. It’s important to know that recovery is possible, and great to have the support of others in recovery. For information and referral assistance, contact the state’s website www.dhh.la.gov or helpline 24/7 at 1-877-770-7867 or http://www.helpforgambling.org.
