Healthcare Alternative Systems (HAS), Inc., formerly known as Hispano Alcoholic Services was founded and first incorporated in 1974. Since that time HAS has been recognized as the leading provider of behavioral health care services (substance abuse, ancillary mental health, and social services) to Hispanics in the Chicago metropolitan area. Over the past 30 years HAS has further developed its culturally sensitive and competent services to other minorities as well as the general population.

The primary organizational strength of HAS is its demonstrated ability to integrate its various internal treatment programs to offer seamless treatment options shaped by the client's and family's needs. By offering a variety of in-house treatment options we can better assure coordinated services with a greater chance of success. In addition HAS is very sensitive to the cultural values and experiences of an individual and how those differences can affect them in today's world. To meet the client's and family's needs we offer a comprehensive continuum of quality behavioral health, and social services. For each person who seeks assistance from us we follow the highest standards of confidentiality, and aim to improve our clients' functioning and reintegration into the community.

HAS offers a complete array of substance abuse and behavioral health programs, which target specific populations such as: MISA (mentally ill/substance abuse), HIV/AIDS, criminal justice, youth, women, domestic violence victims and male perpetrators. Family case management, employee assistance, and prevention services are also offered.

Recognizing the complex needs often presented by our clients and families, in addition to our internal programs and services, HAS maintains formal written linkage agreements with a number of other service organizations and agencies. HAS presently receives client referrals from a variety of sources including hospitals, clinics, private physicians, HMOs, PPOs, EAPs, Managed Care Companies, the Legal System, and community organizations. In acknowledgment of our community service, we have received a number of awards and recognitions, including those from the National Council on Alcoholism, Cook County States Attorney's Office, and the Mayor's Office of the City of Chicago.

Throughout its thirty year history, HAS has worked with hospitals, social service agencies, universities, and research organizations to provide treatment and social services to individuals and their families where gaps in care existed. In addition, HAS has been involved in research to determine the most effective treatment methodologies for clients and the community. This research has resulted in formal treatment linkages between HAS and other organizations.

To support our treatment mission HAS employs a multi-cultural professional team, currently employing 125 staff members, including Board Certified physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, licensed social workers, dieticians, certified addiction counselors, case managers, mental health clinicians, administrative staff, and other support specialists. We service clients of all ages and cultures, and provide services with a sliding fee scale. We do not withhold services to clients with an inability to pay.

HAS is an accredited organization through the Rehabilitation Accreditation Commission (CARF) to provide residential and outpatient substance abuse services. HAS is also licensed by the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (OASA), and is a certified Medicaid Provider and a member agency of United Way/Crusade of Mercy. HAS is also involved with numerous provider networks, such as Health Maintenance Organizations, Preferred Provider Organizations, Employee Assistance Programs and Managed Care Organizations.