The proposed bill, General Assembly Proposed Bill No. 5293, aims to streamline the certificate of need (CON) application process within the public health sector. Key provisions include the establishment of efficient timelines for processing applications, which will include reasonable limits on extensions. Additionally, the bill mandates automatic approval of applications if the specified timelines are not adhered to, thereby reducing delays in the approval process. It also introduces an expedited review process for certain categories and services requiring a CON and seeks to minimize redundant information requests associated with these applications.
The overarching goal of this legislation is to enhance patient care delivery by addressing and reducing the delays currently experienced in the CON application and approval process. By implementing these changes, the bill intends to create a more efficient system that facilitates timely access to necessary health services.