Bill > HB832

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for hospital closures in Pennsylvania, mandating a detailed and transparent process for any general hospital or significant unit closure. Under the Hospital Closure Procedure and Notification Act, hospitals must submit a closure plan at least 180 days before closing, which must be approved by the Office of Attorney General and local health department to ensure continuity of patient care. The bill requires hospitals to conduct at least two public hearings, provide a 60-day public comment period, and submit a health equity impact assessment that details the potential effects of the closure on patient access, community health, jobs, and fiscal impacts. The closure plan must include strategies for patient care continuity, medical record maintenance, emergency service diversion, employee assistance, and community communication. Hospitals must provide regular updates on the closure implementation and face potential enforcement actions, including court-imposed injunctions or the appointment of a special manager, if they fail to comply with the act's requirements. The legislation aims to protect community health by ensuring a comprehensive and transparent hospital closure process that considers the broader impacts on patients and local healthcare infrastructure.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=832