Substance Use Treatment Programs

New online licensure and certification system for health and residential care providers

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) is launching the DHS DQA Provider Portal, a new system for licensure, background checks, plan reviews, and other provider applications for assisted living facilities, adult day care centers, personal care agencies, and substance use and mental health treatment programs. Licensure/certification applications and plan review materials will not be accepted electronically or postmarked as of November 22, 2025, as we transition to the new system. We will accept applications and plan review materials starting December 15, 2025. Applications must be submitted using the DHS DQA Provider Portal. To prepare for this transition and for more information, visit our webpage.

Background check applications for all users

To prepare for the transition to the new DHS DQA Provider Portal, the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) will not accept any new background check applications for entity operators, non-client residents, or other required individuals for new or renewing entity license/certification applications, or for rehabilitation review applicants as of November 22, 2025.

DQA will resume accepting background check applications on December 15, 2025, through the DHS DQA Provider Portal. To prepare for this transition and for more information, visit our webpage. Caregiver background checks completed by entities for employees and contractors are not affected by this transition.

Substance use treatment programs includes a range of programs for people affected by alcohol or drugs. These programs include:

  • Day treatment.
  • Detox centers.
  • Inpatient and outpatient facilities.
  • Intervention and prevention efforts.
  • Residential programs.

Finding and Choosing Substance Use Treatment Programs

Contact us

For questions regarding substance use treatment programs, you can contact the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA):

Section manager

Nicole Kellerman, nicole.kellerman@dhs.wisconsin.gov, 608-267-3552

Related topics

Glossary

 
Last revised June 11, 2025