Bill > HF919

This bill creates a new legal designation for "children's specialty hospitals" and establishes specific licensing and operational guidelines for such facilities. The bill defines a children's specialty hospital as a nonprofit hospital that exclusively serves patients 30 years old and younger, with over 60% of patients receiving medical assistance, specializing in pediatric rehabilitation and behavioral health or complex medical needs, having no more than 200 inpatient beds, and providing outpatient services. The Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing is required to grant a provisional 24-month license to qualifying entities, collaborate on federal certification, and provide waivers from standard hospital regulations. The bill allows these hospitals to operate under nursing facility physical standards and exempts them from certificate of need requirements during their conversion process. The Department of Health and Human Services will set reimbursement rates for inpatient and outpatient care based on specific cost calculations. Emergency rules can be adopted to implement the bill's provisions, and the legislation takes effect immediately upon enactment, signaling its perceived urgency and importance for specialized pediatric healthcare services.

Health and Social Services

Health And Human Services (H)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF919