Bill > HB2119

This bill directs the State Health Commissioner to task the State Health Services Plan Task Force with developing recommendations for an expedited application and review process for Certificate of Public Need (COPN) projects in underserved areas, which the bill defines as "medical deserts". Specifically, these medical deserts are areas that meet at least two of three defined criteria: (1) lack of a hospital or healthcare provider within 30 miles in low-density areas (less than 1,500 residents per square mile) or within 15 miles in more densely populated areas, (2) have fewer than one primary care physician per 3,500 residents, or (3) have an annual poverty rate of 20% or higher according to U.S. Census Bureau data. The goal of the bill is to streamline the process for bringing healthcare services to communities that are currently experiencing significant gaps in medical care access, with the Task Force expected to develop specific project eligibility criteria for this expedited review process.

Health and Social Services

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2119