(1) The department shall deem an agency or branch site as meeting state minimum standards for licensing and certification described in this chapter as a result of accreditation by a national accreditation organization that is recognized by and has a current agreement with the department.

(2) To implement deemed status when opening a new main site agency, adding a new type of service to a main site agency, or adding a new type of service to a branch site location that is not currently offered at the main site agency, an agency must:

(a) Submit proof of accreditation for the services provided by the agency to the department; and

(b) Complete a department initial on-site review.

(3) To implement deemed status when opening a new branch site location that is providing the same services as a deemed main site agency, or a service is being added to a branch site location that is a deemed service at a main site location, an agency must submit proof of accreditation for the services provided by the agency to the department.

(4) The department will not conduct an on-site review as part of the deeming process for tribal behavioral health agencies who seek licensure pursuant to WAC 246-341-0310.

(5) Deeming will be in accordance with the established written agreement between the national accreditation organization and the department.

(6) Specific licensing and certification requirements of any:

(a) State rule may only be waived through a deeming process consistent with the established written agreement between the recognized behavioral health accrediting body and the department.

(b) State or federal statute or regulation will not be waived through a deeming process.

(7) A deemed main site agency or branch site must submit to the department a copy of any relevant reports such as audits, findings, or documentation related to accreditation status.