Steps to certification

The certification process is described below.

Contact the Certification Support Team to begin the certification process.

Purchase the ASAM Level of Care Certification Manual to determine the extent to which the services at the location seeking certification (“Services”) can satisfy the rating elements during the survey. Additional resources are available.

Upon request, CARF will provide an application for certification via Customer Connect. In the case of recertification, an application is provided before expiration of the current certification. CARF will review the submitted application and may request additional information.

All certification fees are due and payable in full within ten calendar days of invoice.

CARF will schedule the survey to occur during the six months following completion of the application process. CARF uses reasonable best efforts to avoid scheduling on dates identified as problematic in the application and to provide notice of the specific survey date(s) at least 30 calendar days before the survey.

The survey will occur on the scheduled date(s). The surveyor will make observations and review a sample of records and other presented documents to determine the demonstrated satisfaction of applicable rating elements. The surveyor will provide notice when the survey is complete. After the survey, all communications should be directed to the Certification Support Team.

CARF will determine the certification decision based on the survey and issue the decision letter, Plan of Action form, and certificate (if applicable) approximately six to eight weeks after the survey.

Within 90 days of issuance of certification, a completed Plan of Action must be submitted via Customer Connect in the form provided by CARF. The form identifies any applicable rating elements not satisfactorily demonstrated during the survey. The completed Plan of Action must set forth the action that will be taken to address each rating element identified in the Plan of Action form.

A completed annual report must be timely submitted via Customer Connect, in the form provided by CARF. The report certifies that the Services at all times have the capacity to deliver the certified Level(s) of Care and are in compliance with all applicable terms and conditions of certification. A report is due on the first and second certification anniversary dates.

Important information

Smiling young woman sitting on a couch while counselor takes notes

Levels of Care

Determine your ASAM Levels of Care.

Cover of the ASAM Level of Care Manual, blue and white abstract graphic and title

Rating elements

The ASAM Level of Care Certification Manual contains the rating elements that are applied during a survey.

Person pulling a document from filing cabinet

Resources

Materials to help you prepare for certification.

Happy adult man, working on his laptop

Preparing for survey

Learn how to prepare for your certification survey.

Word logo Customer Connect in mid blue, dark blue and gold on light blue background

Customer Connect

Our secure online portal for managing the certification process. Login or request an account.

Men and women sitting in a circle during group therapy, supporting each other

We’re here to help!

No matter where you are in your certification journey, we are here to answer your questions and provide assistance.