Behavioral Health Organization: The Three P’s

When potential new customers inquire about the essential qualities necessary for a successful behavioral health organization, it's important to draw on experience. After 45 years in this field, I have observed successes and failures. While sufficient capital, a solid business plan, and a potential payor base are essential, they are not enough to ensure survival in this industry. It's vital to consider the "three P's" that contribute to a thriving organization: Passion, Patience, and Persistence. Without these, even the most well-funded and strategically planned organizations can falter, as I've seen in numerous cases.

Passion is a fundamental quality in the behavioral health organization. Unlike many other fields, healthcare demands a deep commitment to improving individual lives. Most professionals in this domain have personal stories that motivate their involvement—many have personal histories as former foster children or have faced mental health challenges themselves. These personal narratives not only drive their work but also create a sense of empathy and connection with the audience. Some staff members are foster or adoptive parents, bringing valuable perspectives to their roles. Organizations such as Kaiser Permanente emphasize "passion" in their recruitment efforts because a strong desire to help others is critical for success. An effective mission statement will often highlight the importance of caring for others.

Patience is equally essential. Establishing a behavioral health organization or launching new services often requires significant time. For instance, in California, initiating a Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Program (STRTP)  or Qualified Residential Treatment Program (QRTP) can take three to four years due to the necessary layers of program development and approvals from county and state governments. Many aspiring agencies become frustrated with this lengthy process; however, it is essential to recognize that thoroughness is crucial for maintaining credibility. The slow-moving nature of governmental processes exists for a good reason, as they aim to avoid issues such as ghost networks in insurance or incidents at group homes. Embracing patience is essential in navigating these challenges, and understanding this can reassure the audience about the importance of these processes.

Persistence complements patience, as behavioral health organizations cannot afford to let opportunities slip away. Although securing approvals or developing new business ventures takes time, active engagement is necessary. Building a network with individuals in managed care companies or governmental entities can lead to valuable collaborations. For example, there was a case where a client sought Medi-Cal approval for a residential treatment facility for substance use. After applying, no progress occurred for three months. However, leveraging contacts within the California Department of Health Care Services helped identify the PAVE system was the correct channel to expedite the approval process. Due to persistence, the client received state certification more quickly. This story of persistence should motivate organizations to be proactive in their own endeavors.

By emphasizing these three P's—Passion, Patience, and Persistence—behavioral health organizations can adopt a constructive approach to growth and sustainability within their business. What are some instances in your experience where these qualities have been crucial to the success of your organization?