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SMI eligibility determination process.

Solari Crisis & Human Services, Inc. is responsible for reviewing all applications for Serious Mental Illness (SMI) determinations in the state of Arizona.

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How does the eligibility determination process work?

Anyone residing in the state of Arizona can ask to be assessed for their eligibility to receive SMI services.

Step 1: Request

A person can request to be evaluated to receive SMI services. The person must request an evaluation through their AHCCCS contracted behavioral health provider (health home).

Tips for a successful SMI evaluation meeting.

The best way to make sure that the SMI determination is done correctly and as quickly as possible is to be prepared. Bring as much information as possible to the SMI evaluation meeting.

Tip 1

Evaluations typically last approximately 1.5 – 2 hours, so plan accordingly. Bring identification and a list of current medications to the appointment.

Tip 2

Provide a list of any past behavioral health providers (i.e. schools, doctors, hospitals, therapists, etc.), and include their name, address, and telephone number. A release of information (ROI) will be completed by the evaluator, so records from providers can be requested if needed.

Tip 3

Provide copies of any clinically relevant behavioral health records, if available (i.e. hospital discharge paperwork, school IEPs, Individual Service Plans, medical records, etc.).

Tip 4

Friends and/or family members can attend the evaluation to provide additional background information about symptoms and functional impairments.

Your right to appeal the decision.

The letter (Notice of Decision) will include information on an applicant’s rights to appeal the decision if they do not agree with the eligibility determination. Applicants have 60 days from the date of the decision to request an appeal. An appeal can be filed by mailing the form included in the notice, by phone at 855-832-2866, or on the Solari website.

After an appeal has been received, Solari schedules an informal meeting to discuss the eligibility determination and review any new records or information. If, after the informal meeting, Solari determines the applicant does not meet criteria, the applicant has the right to request an Administrative Hearing. Requests for Administrative Hearings must be made in writing and sent to the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) at the following address:

AHCCCS/OALS

Behavioral Health Grievance and Appeals
801 E. Jefferson Street, Mail Drop 6100
Phoenix, AZ 85034

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Frequently asked questions.

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We are here to assist you through the eligibility determination process. Please contact us if you have any questions or need technical support.

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