General Assembly Raised Bill No. 193 seeks to establish licensure for long-term acute care hospitals in Connecticut by amending Section 19a-490 of the general statutes. The bill introduces the definition of "long-term acute care hospital," recognizing it as a distinct category of healthcare facility that provides specialized care for patients with complex medical needs over an extended period. Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "birth center" as a freestanding facility for low-risk pregnancies and healthy newborns, while also introducing the definition of "source plasma donation center," which refers to facilities that collect source plasma through plasmapheresis.

The legislation also involves the repeal of existing language in Section 19a-490, effectively replacing it with updated definitions and classifications of healthcare institutions. Notably, the bill deletes the conjunction "and" from the definition of "source plasma donation center." This comprehensive update aims to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding long-term acute care hospitals, ensuring they meet specific licensure requirements and ultimately improving the quality of care provided to patients. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, allowing time for the establishment of necessary regulatory measures.

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