Raised Bill No. 1539 proposes comprehensive changes to the certificate of need (CON) application process for healthcare facilities in Connecticut, particularly focusing on the transfer of ownership of hospitals and large group practices. The bill expands the list of actions requiring a CON, including the establishment of outpatient surgical facilities, termination of certain hospital services, and acquisition of advanced imaging equipment. A significant new requirement mandates that any investment by a private equity company acquiring a controlling interest in a healthcare facility must obtain a CON. Additionally, the bill outlines specific considerations for the review of CON applications, emphasizing public need, financial feasibility, and the impact on healthcare accessibility and quality. It also establishes a presumption favoring the approval of CON applications for large group practice ownership transfers in response to requests for proposals.

Moreover, the bill introduces new procedural requirements, such as mandating public notice of applications and detailed plans for service provision post-transfer. It requires public hearings for certain applications, particularly those involving hospital ownership transfers, and sets thresholds for when these hearings are necessary. The bill also allows for expedited reviews of applications related to increasing bed capacity and specifies that requests for intervenor status will not be granted for applications filed by small group practices. The changes aim to enhance transparency, community engagement, and oversight in the healthcare sector, ensuring that ownership transfers do not compromise the quality and accessibility of healthcare services in Connecticut. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, and includes provisions for the Commissioner of Health Strategy to implement necessary policies during the interim period.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
PH Joint Favorable:
File No. 664:
APP Joint Favorable: