Plan additional PA BHT training

1. Mandated reporting

The initial topic list includes the Child Protective Services Law and mandated reporting. Review the Department of Human Services’ mandated reporter training resources and its IBHS training approval process before choosing a course. Ask the licensing representative how prior training should be documented.

2. First aid and CPR

OMHSAS’s Chapter 5240 compliance guide interprets both first aid and CPR as part of the initial first-aid topic. The DHS approval process lists providers for first aid, universal precautions and safety. Verify the course, dates, certification and required provider with your licensing representative.

3. Crisis intervention

The initial topic list includes crisis intervention skills, including risk management, de-escalation and safety planning. Choose training through your agency’s approved plan and verify that the course and hours are appropriate with OMHSAS. Do not assume a general foundations course covers crisis intervention.

Put the full plan together

For this group of new BHTs, 55 Pa. Code § 5240.73 specifies at least 30 hours of Department-approved initial training before independent service and a separate 24 hours within the first six months of providing BHT services. Review all required topics, actual hours and documentation, not just these three areas.

Special Learning’s PA IBHS ten-seat recording pack is $890 once for up to ten staff; each seat has six months of access from setup. It documents training clock hours, not BACB CE, and does not by itself establish that a staff member has met all initial requirements. Your clinical lead and licensing representative decide what fits each individual plan.

Use the new-hire topic record to document the entire plan.