Bill S.189 establishes a formal process for hospitals in Vermont to follow when proposing to reduce or eliminate services. Under the new section 9405d, hospitals must provide a notice of intent to relevant state agencies and local representatives at least 60 days prior to any proposed changes. This notice must include the rationale for the decision and how it aligns with the Statewide Health Care Delivery Strategic Plan and the hospital's community health needs assessment. Additionally, hospitals are required to post the notice on their website, publish it in local newspapers, and conduct a public engagement process that includes public hearings and soliciting community feedback.

The bill also amends section 9456 regarding budget reviews, removing previous requirements for hospitals to notify the Green Mountain Care Board and other entities 45 days in advance of service reductions tied to budget compliance. Instead, it mandates that the Board review the impact of any service reductions or eliminations on the hospital's budget after receiving notification from the hospital. The Board has the authority to adjust the hospital's budget accordingly and ensure that any savings from service reductions are utilized to address affordability concerns or reinvested in community health services. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-9456
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 18-9456
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 18-9456