Bill > SB140

This bill establishes legal requirements for freestanding birthing centers in Ohio, defining them as facilities that provide care during pregnancy, delivery, and immediate postpartum period for low-risk expectant mothers, explicitly excluding hospitals from this definition. The bill mandates that all freestanding birthing centers must have a written plan for transferring mothers or newborns to a hospital in case of medical complications or emergencies. Additionally, the bill creates different regulatory standards based on accreditation: birthing centers accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers are not required to establish a written transfer agreement with a hospital, while non-accredited centers must have a written transfer agreement with a local hospital. The legislation provides clarity on the operational requirements and transfer protocols for these specialized medical facilities, aiming to ensure patient safety while offering flexibility for accredited centers.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb140