Oklahoma City, December 18, 2025
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is considering privatizing four state-run behavioral health facilities to modernize services and tackle workforce challenges. A request for proposals has been issued with submissions due by January 17, 2026. Meanwhile, a legislative committee is assessing the department’s financial operations amid concerns over transparency and adequacy of funding. Potential privatization has raised worries about job security for current employees and the risk of service disruptions.
Oklahoma City, OK – December 18, 2025
State Considers Privatizing Behavioral Health Centers Amid Financial Challenges
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) is exploring the privatization of four state-run behavioral health facilities in Lawton, McAlester, Norman, and Fort Supply. This move aims to enhance technology, modernize facilities, and address workforce needs. The department has issued a request for proposals (RFP) to identify potential private operators for these Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs). Proposals are due by January 17, 2026.
Financial Oversight and Legislative Response
In response to financial concerns, the Oklahoma House of Representatives has formed a select committee to review ODMHSAS’s financial operations. Chaired by Majority Leader Mark Lawson, the committee seeks to ensure transparency and accountability in the department’s budgeting and spending practices.
Background on Behavioral Health Services in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has faced challenges in providing adequate mental health services, including a shortage of behavioral health care providers such as psychiatrists, social workers, and therapists. In April 2024, the state launched the SoonerSelect managed care program, which now covers 56% of Medicaid enrollees, approximately 583,000 individuals. This program aims to improve coordination and access to mental health and substance abuse services.
Implications of Privatization
The potential privatization of CCBHCs has raised concerns among current employees about job security and the adequacy of funding for existing services. Critics argue that the current CCBHC model is underfunded, and expanding privatization without addressing these issues may lead to service disruptions.
Next Steps
The ODMHSAS is currently reviewing proposals from private providers interested in operating the four CCBHCs. The select committee continues to investigate the department’s financial practices to inform future decisions regarding the privatization and funding of mental health services in Oklahoma.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS)?
The ODMHSAS is the state agency responsible for providing mental health and substance abuse services to Oklahomans. It operates various facilities, including Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs), to deliver these services.
What does privatizing CCBHCs entail?
Privatizing CCBHCs involves transferring the operation of these state-run facilities to private providers. The goal is to improve service delivery through enhanced technology, modernized facilities, and expanded workforce capacity.
Why is the state considering privatization?
The state is considering privatization to address financial challenges, improve service quality, and meet the growing demand for mental health services in Oklahoma.
What are the concerns associated with privatization?
Concerns include potential job losses for current state employees, the adequacy of funding for existing services, and the risk of service disruptions if privatization is not carefully managed.
What is the SoonerSelect managed care program?
Launched in April 2024, the SoonerSelect managed care program is a Medicaid initiative that aims to improve coordination and access to mental health and substance abuse services for enrollees in Oklahoma.
Key Features of the Privatization Consideration
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Facilities Affected | Four state-run Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics in Lawton, McAlester, Norman, and Fort Supply. |
| Proposal Deadline | January 17, 2026. |
| Committee Formation | Oklahoma House of Representatives formed a select committee to review ODMHSAS’s financial operations. |
| Program Coverage | SoonerSelect managed care program covers 56% of Medicaid enrollees in Oklahoma, approximately 583,000 individuals. |
| Primary Concerns | Job security for current employees, adequacy of funding for existing services, and potential service disruptions. |
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