Which entity is responsible for regulating treatment standards in California?

The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is the entity responsible for regulating treatment standards in California, particularly for alcohol and drug treatment programs. This agency oversees the administration of various health care programs, including those related to substance use disorders. It sets forth guidelines and standards to ensure that treatment services are effective, safe, and compliant with state and federal regulations.

In contrast, while the California State Legislature creates laws that can affect health care and treatment standards, it does not directly regulate treatment programs or establish specific standards. The California Association of Substance Abuse Treatment is an advocacy group that may support treatment initiatives but does not have regulatory authority. Similarly, California Mental Health Services primarily focuses on mental health issues, not substance abuse treatment standards specifically. Thus, the DHCS plays a pivotal role in regulating and monitoring the quality of care provided in substance use treatment across the state.