Code of Colorado Regulations 500 - Department of Human Services
Code of Colorado Regulations (CCR) — Department of Human Services, Regulation 500
Scope
CCR 500 covers the rules and regulations governing the Colorado Department of Human Services (DHS).
The regulations set standards for services, administration, and oversight of programs provided by DHS.
These rules are designed to implement Colorado statutes related to social services, child welfare, mental health, aging, and other public assistance programs.
Section 1. General Provisions
Establishes the legal authority of DHS to administer programs consistent with Colorado law.
Defines key terms used in the regulations, including:
“Department” – Colorado Department of Human Services.
“Division” – Any subdivision of DHS responsible for program oversight.
“Client” or “Participant” – Individuals receiving services under DHS programs.
“Provider” – Entities or individuals providing services under contract or agreement with DHS.
Requires compliance with all applicable federal and state statutes.
Clarifies that DHS regulations may be amended to ensure consistency with law and program needs.
Section 2. Administration
DHS is responsible for:
Developing policy, procedures, and operational guidance.
Overseeing the performance of its divisions and service providers.
Maintaining records, reporting requirements, and documentation standards.
Ensuring staff and provider training meets statutory and regulatory requirements.
Section 3. Service Delivery Standards
All DHS programs must ensure services are:
Accessible, timely, and appropriate for the needs of clients.
Delivered by qualified staff or certified providers.
Consistent with best practices and ethical standards.
Specific areas of service include:
Child Welfare Services – foster care, adoption, and protective services.
Adult and Aging Services – long-term care, adult protection, and in-home services.
Mental Health and Behavioral Services – outpatient and residential programs.
Public Assistance Programs – eligibility, benefits administration, and client rights.
DHS must monitor service delivery for quality, safety, and compliance.
Section 4. Provider Requirements
Providers must:
Meet licensing or certification standards required by DHS.
Follow program-specific rules and contractual obligations.
Maintain accurate client records, reporting, and outcome data.
Ensure staff receive required training and professional development.
DHS may suspend, revoke, or sanction providers who fail to meet requirements.
Section 5. Client Rights and Responsibilities
Clients have the right to:
Receive services without discrimination.
Participate in decisions about their care.
Access information about their case and DHS programs.
Appeal decisions affecting services or benefits.
Clients are responsible for:
Providing accurate information.
Following program rules and service agreements.
Reporting changes affecting eligibility or service needs.
Section 6. Recordkeeping and Reporting
DHS and providers must maintain records according to retention schedules.
Records include:
Client files and case notes.
Financial and billing information.
Program evaluation and performance data.
DHS uses records for program oversight, audits, and quality improvement.
Section 7. Oversight and Enforcement
DHS monitors compliance through:
On-site inspections.
Audits of financial and programmatic operations.
Reporting requirements for divisions and providers.
Violations may result in:
Corrective action plans.
Fines or penalties.
Suspension or termination of provider contracts.
Summary
CCR 500 provides the legal and operational framework for DHS programs in Colorado.
It sets standards for administration, service delivery, provider responsibilities, client rights, recordkeeping, and oversight.
Compliance ensures DHS services meet statutory and ethical obligations while protecting client welfare.
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