General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1539 proposes significant amendments to the certificate of need (CON) process for health care facilities in Connecticut. The bill introduces new categories requiring a CON, including cardiac services, outpatient surgical facilities, and advanced imaging equipment, as well as mandates a CON for private equity investments acquiring controlling interests in health care facilities. It expands the scope of services necessitating a CON, particularly concerning the termination of inpatient and outpatient services related to mental health and substance abuse. The deliberation process for CON applications is revised to include considerations of public need, financial feasibility, and the impact on existing services, with a presumption favoring the approval of ownership transfers for large group practices.

Additionally, the bill establishes new requirements for the publication and notification processes for CON applications, including mandatory notices in newspapers and community locations, and detailed plans for health care services post-transfer for hospital ownership changes. It prohibits granting intervenor status in public hearings for small group practices and introduces an expedited review process for certain applications. The bill also includes provisions for compliance monitoring post-transfer and denies CON applications for hospitals terminating labor and delivery services unless alternatives are available within a specified distance. These changes aim to enhance oversight and ensure community healthcare needs are prioritized, with an effective date set for October 1, 2025.

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