General Assembly Raised Bill No. 288 proposes significant amendments to the regulation of nursing home bed moratoriums, reimbursement rates, and auditing processes for various healthcare facilities. The bill repeals certain provisions in section 17b-354 that previously limited the approval of additional nursing home beds and introduces new exceptions for relocating Medicaid certified beds, adding new beds to existing facilities, and establishing small-house style nursing homes. It clarifies that beds associated with continuing care facilities are exempt from certificate of need provisions. Additionally, the bill outlines criteria for the Commissioner of Social Services to consider when evaluating bed change requests, emphasizing financial feasibility, public need, and the impact on existing facilities, while revising the definition of "demonstrated bed need" to focus on occupancy rates and projected needs.

The legislation also mandates audits of healthcare facilities, requiring the Commissioner to notify them at least thirty days in advance, with provisions for addressing clerical errors and discrepancies. It introduces a minimum data set audit for Medicaid acuity-based per diem rates and establishes a process for facilities to request rehearings on audit findings. The bill includes penalties for submitting false information and mandates that audits be conducted by licensed health professionals. Furthermore, it outlines the process for determining service rates, emphasizing reasonable costs and excluding certain related party expenses. The act aims to enhance the financial stability of nursing homes while ensuring accountability and quality care for residents, with specific provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

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