Bill > HB2176

This bill modifies existing Arizona law regarding the licensure and oversight of health care institutions, aiming to strengthen patient safety and clarify investigation processes. It amends a section concerning legal actions and changes in ownership, expanding the grounds on which the department can deny a new license or approval for a change in ownership. Specifically, the department can now deny a license if the applicant or anyone in a business relationship with them has had a health care license denied, revoked, or suspended, or has a history of recent serious violations that posed a direct risk to patients or residents. The bill also adds new sections that require the department to notify health care institutions of the general nature of complaints during investigations, while protecting complainant information. Furthermore, it establishes a twelve-month time limit for investigating alleged violations, with an exception for complaints involving abuse allegations. Finally, the bill mandates that statements of deficiencies issued after inspections or investigations must cite the specific statute or rule violated, and it outlines a process for health care institutions to dispute deficiencies, requiring them to provide explanations and documentation within ten business days, after which the department must issue a written decision and potentially an amended statement of deficiencies.

Health and Social Services

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83840