Here are four things to know about the legislation.
1. The legislation would require freestanding EDs to obtain a certificate of need, which hospitals must obtain prior to building medical facilities and offering services.
2. Hospitals are supportive of the legislation. Michael Souza, executive director of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island, contends the certificate of need process “is necessary to ensure that freestanding EDs do not undermine state system reform efforts,” according to the report.
He added, “HARI and its members support this bill to subject freestanding ERs to the same regulatory and licensure requirements in existence for other Rhode Island health care facilities. The creation of a level playing field will further ensure patient access to quality, affordable, care in the most appropriate setting.”
3. The legislation comes as Pearland, Texas-based Neighbors Emergency Center seeks to open numerous locations in Rhode Island.
4. According to the report, applications for freestanding EDs received before the passage of the legislation would not have to go through the certificate of need process.
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