California 2025-2026 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB55 Compare Versions

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1-Amended IN Assembly April 10, 2025 Amended IN Assembly February 25, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 55Introduced by Assembly Member BontaDecember 02, 2024 An act to amend Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code, and to amend Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to alternative birth centers.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 55, as amended, Bonta. Alternative birth centers: licensing and Medi-Cal reimbursement.Existing law provides for the licensure and regulation of various types of clinics, including alternative birth centers, by the State Department of Public Health, and makes a violation of those provisions a crime. Existing law defines an alternative birth center as a clinic that is not part of a hospital and that provides comprehensive perinatal services and delivery care to pregnant women who remain less than 24 hours at the facility. Existing law requires a licensed alternative birth center specialty clinic, and a licensed primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, to meet certain criteria, including, among others, being located in proximity to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies. emergencies, as specified.Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions. Existing law sets forth certain criteria for Medi-Cal reimbursement to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs.Under existing law, as a criterion under both the licensing provisions and the Medi-Cal reimbursement provisions described above, the facility is required to be a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions.This bill would remove, under both sets of criteria, the certification condition of being a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions. The bill would require the facility to provide pregnancy and postpartum services, consistent with certain standards. The bill would delete remove the above-described proximity requirement and would instead require a written policy for hospital transfer, as provided. The plan for hospital transfer. The bill would require the plan to include certain requirements with regard to providing the hospital with medical records, speaking with the receiving provider, and providing the patient with the estimated transfer time.The bill would also make a technical change to an obsolete reference within a related provision. ByBy creating a new requirement new requirements for an alternative birth center or a primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Provide pregnancy and postpartum services, including, but not limited to, psychosocial assessments, nutritional assessments, and overall health, childbirth, and parenting education, consistent with the high standards of the midwifery and birth center model of care and as described in paragraph (3).(1)(2) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2)(3) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3)(4) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer. plan for hospital transfer, which shall include, but not be limited to, both of the following:(i) A requirement that the certified nurse-midwife or licensed midwife, at the time of transfer or as soon as practicable, provide the hospital with the transferred patients or clients medical records, including prenatal records, and speak with the receiving provider who is responsible for the patients inpatient care at the time of transfer, about labor up to the point of the transfer.(ii) A requirement that the patient be provided the estimated transfer time from departure to the expected arrival at the receiving hospital, with incorporated discussions about maternal and fetal or neonatal risks and benefits with the provision of care at the alternative birth center or the primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4)(5) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).SEC. 2. Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14148.8. (a) (1) The State Department of Health Care Services shall provide Medi-Cal reimbursements to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs at a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average Medi-Cal reimbursement received by general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts and shall be based on an average hospital length of stay of 1.7 days. The reimbursement rate shall be updated annually and shall be based on the California Medical Assistance Commissions annually published legislative report of average contract rates for general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts. However, the reimbursement shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. This paragraph shall apply to Medi-Cal reimbursement for facility-related delivery costs of alternative birth centers until the effective date of any necessary federal approval obtained by the department pursuant to paragraph (2).(2) Effective no earlier than July 1, 2017, the department shall reimburse facility-related Medi-Cal delivery costs of eligible alternative birth centers based on a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average diagnosis-related groups (DRG) Level 1 rates received by general acute care hospitals pursuant to Section 14105.28 and the applicable provisions of the Medi-Cal State Plan. Reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. The department shall seek any federal approvals necessary to implement this paragraph. This paragraph shall not be implemented until any necessary federal approvals are obtained. This paragraph shall not be construed to make inoperative any existing payment reductions that are applicable to alternative birth center services, including, but not limited to, the payment reductions imposed pursuant to Section 14105.192, subject to paragraph (3).(3) Effective July 1, 2022, or the effective date specified in any necessary federal approvals obtained by the department to implement subparagraph (B) of paragraph (13) of subdivision (h) of Section 14105.192, whichever is later, reimbursement to alternative birth centers shall be exempt from the payment reductions imposed by subdivision (d) of Section 14105.192.(b) In order to be eligible for reimbursement pursuant to this section, an alternative birth center shall satisfy the following criteria as determined by the state department:(1) The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code.(2) The facility may utilize licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, certified nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists when appropriate.(3) The facility shall meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the department, including those relating to the proximity and involvement of hospitals, obstetricians, and pediatricians.(c) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section, in whole or in part, by means of provider bulletins or notices, policy letters, or other similar instructions, without taking regulatory action.(d) This section does not alter the scope of practice for any health care professional or authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or in a manner not authorized by the Health and Safety Code or the Business and Professions Code.(e) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that any necessary federal approvals are obtained and federal financial participation is available and is not otherwise jeopardized.SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
1+Amended IN Assembly February 25, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 55Introduced by Assembly Member BontaDecember 02, 2024 An act to amend Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code, and to amend Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to alternative birth centers.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 55, as amended, Bonta. Alternative birth centers: licensing and Medi-Cal reimbursement.Existing law provides for the licensure and regulation of various types of clinics, including alternative birth centers, by the State Department of Public Health. Health, and makes a violation of those provisions a crime. Existing law defines an alternative birth center as a clinic that is not part of a hospital and that provides comprehensive perinatal services and delivery care to pregnant women who remain less than 24 hours at the facility. Existing law requires a licensed alternative birth center specialty clinic, and a licensed primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, to meet certain criteria. criteria, including, among others, being located in proximity to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies.Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions. Existing law sets forth certain criteria for Medi-Cal reimbursement to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs.Under existing law, as a criterion under both the licensing provisions and the Medi-Cal reimbursement provisions described above, the facility is required to be a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions.This bill would remove, under both sets of criteria, the certification condition of being a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions. The bill would delete the above-described proximity requirement and instead require a written policy for hospital transfer, as provided. The bill would also make a technical change to an obsolete reference within a related provision. By creating a new requirement for an alternative birth center or a primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NOYES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A)Be located in proximity, in time and distance, to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies, including the ability to provide cesarean section delivery, within 30 minutes from time of diagnosis of the emergency.(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).SEC. 2. Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14148.8. (a) (1) The State Department of Health Care Services shall provide Medi-Cal reimbursements to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs at a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average Medi-Cal reimbursement received by general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts and shall be based on an average hospital length of stay of 1.7 days. The reimbursement rate shall be updated annually and shall be based on the California Medical Assistance Commissions annually published legislative report of average contract rates for general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts. However, the reimbursement shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. This paragraph shall apply to Medi-Cal reimbursement for facility-related delivery costs of alternative birth centers until the effective date of any necessary federal approval obtained by the department pursuant to paragraph (2).(2) Effective no earlier than July 1, 2017, the department shall reimburse facility-related Medi-Cal delivery costs of eligible alternative birth centers based on a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average diagnosis-related groups (DRG) Level 1 rates received by general acute care hospitals pursuant to Section 14105.28 and the applicable provisions of the Medi-Cal State Plan. Reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. The department shall seek any federal approvals necessary to implement this paragraph. This paragraph shall not be implemented until any necessary federal approvals are obtained. This paragraph shall not be construed to make inoperative any existing payment reductions that are applicable to alternative birth center services, including, but not limited to, the payment reductions imposed pursuant to Section 14105.192, subject to paragraph (3).(3) Effective July 1, 2022, or the effective date specified in any necessary federal approvals obtained by the department to implement subparagraph (B) of paragraph (13) of subdivision (h) of Section 14105.192, whichever is later, reimbursement to alternative birth centers shall be exempt from the payment reductions imposed by subdivision (d) of Section 14105.192.(b) In order to be eligible for reimbursement pursuant to this section, an alternative birth center shall satisfy the following criteria as determined by the state department:(1) The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code.(2) The facility may utilize licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, certified nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists when appropriate.(3) The facility shall meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the department, including those relating to the proximity and involvement of hospitals, obstetricians, and pediatricians.(c) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section, in whole or in part, by means of provider bulletins or notices, policy letters, or other similar instructions, without taking regulatory action.(d) This section does not alter the scope of practice for any health care professional or authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or in a manner not authorized by the Health and Safety Code or the Business and Professions Code.(e) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that any necessary federal approvals are obtained and federal financial participation is available and is not otherwise jeopardized.SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
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3- Amended IN Assembly April 10, 2025 Amended IN Assembly February 25, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 55Introduced by Assembly Member BontaDecember 02, 2024 An act to amend Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code, and to amend Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to alternative birth centers.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 55, as amended, Bonta. Alternative birth centers: licensing and Medi-Cal reimbursement.Existing law provides for the licensure and regulation of various types of clinics, including alternative birth centers, by the State Department of Public Health, and makes a violation of those provisions a crime. Existing law defines an alternative birth center as a clinic that is not part of a hospital and that provides comprehensive perinatal services and delivery care to pregnant women who remain less than 24 hours at the facility. Existing law requires a licensed alternative birth center specialty clinic, and a licensed primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, to meet certain criteria, including, among others, being located in proximity to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies. emergencies, as specified.Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions. Existing law sets forth certain criteria for Medi-Cal reimbursement to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs.Under existing law, as a criterion under both the licensing provisions and the Medi-Cal reimbursement provisions described above, the facility is required to be a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions.This bill would remove, under both sets of criteria, the certification condition of being a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions. The bill would require the facility to provide pregnancy and postpartum services, consistent with certain standards. The bill would delete remove the above-described proximity requirement and would instead require a written policy for hospital transfer, as provided. The plan for hospital transfer. The bill would require the plan to include certain requirements with regard to providing the hospital with medical records, speaking with the receiving provider, and providing the patient with the estimated transfer time.The bill would also make a technical change to an obsolete reference within a related provision. ByBy creating a new requirement new requirements for an alternative birth center or a primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES
3+ Amended IN Assembly February 25, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 55Introduced by Assembly Member BontaDecember 02, 2024 An act to amend Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code, and to amend Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to alternative birth centers.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 55, as amended, Bonta. Alternative birth centers: licensing and Medi-Cal reimbursement.Existing law provides for the licensure and regulation of various types of clinics, including alternative birth centers, by the State Department of Public Health. Health, and makes a violation of those provisions a crime. Existing law defines an alternative birth center as a clinic that is not part of a hospital and that provides comprehensive perinatal services and delivery care to pregnant women who remain less than 24 hours at the facility. Existing law requires a licensed alternative birth center specialty clinic, and a licensed primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, to meet certain criteria. criteria, including, among others, being located in proximity to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies.Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions. Existing law sets forth certain criteria for Medi-Cal reimbursement to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs.Under existing law, as a criterion under both the licensing provisions and the Medi-Cal reimbursement provisions described above, the facility is required to be a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions.This bill would remove, under both sets of criteria, the certification condition of being a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions. The bill would delete the above-described proximity requirement and instead require a written policy for hospital transfer, as provided. The bill would also make a technical change to an obsolete reference within a related provision. By creating a new requirement for an alternative birth center or a primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NOYES
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5- Amended IN Assembly April 10, 2025 Amended IN Assembly February 25, 2025
5+ Amended IN Assembly February 25, 2025
66
7-Amended IN Assembly April 10, 2025
87 Amended IN Assembly February 25, 2025
98
109 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION
1110
1211 Assembly Bill
1312
1413 No. 55
1514
1615 Introduced by Assembly Member BontaDecember 02, 2024
1716
1817 Introduced by Assembly Member Bonta
1918 December 02, 2024
2019
2120 An act to amend Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code, and to amend Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to alternative birth centers.
2221
2322 LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
2423
2524 ## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
2625
2726 AB 55, as amended, Bonta. Alternative birth centers: licensing and Medi-Cal reimbursement.
2827
29-Existing law provides for the licensure and regulation of various types of clinics, including alternative birth centers, by the State Department of Public Health, and makes a violation of those provisions a crime. Existing law defines an alternative birth center as a clinic that is not part of a hospital and that provides comprehensive perinatal services and delivery care to pregnant women who remain less than 24 hours at the facility. Existing law requires a licensed alternative birth center specialty clinic, and a licensed primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, to meet certain criteria, including, among others, being located in proximity to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies. emergencies, as specified.Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions. Existing law sets forth certain criteria for Medi-Cal reimbursement to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs.Under existing law, as a criterion under both the licensing provisions and the Medi-Cal reimbursement provisions described above, the facility is required to be a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions.This bill would remove, under both sets of criteria, the certification condition of being a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions. The bill would require the facility to provide pregnancy and postpartum services, consistent with certain standards. The bill would delete remove the above-described proximity requirement and would instead require a written policy for hospital transfer, as provided. The plan for hospital transfer. The bill would require the plan to include certain requirements with regard to providing the hospital with medical records, speaking with the receiving provider, and providing the patient with the estimated transfer time.The bill would also make a technical change to an obsolete reference within a related provision. ByBy creating a new requirement new requirements for an alternative birth center or a primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
28+Existing law provides for the licensure and regulation of various types of clinics, including alternative birth centers, by the State Department of Public Health. Health, and makes a violation of those provisions a crime. Existing law defines an alternative birth center as a clinic that is not part of a hospital and that provides comprehensive perinatal services and delivery care to pregnant women who remain less than 24 hours at the facility. Existing law requires a licensed alternative birth center specialty clinic, and a licensed primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, to meet certain criteria. criteria, including, among others, being located in proximity to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies.Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions. Existing law sets forth certain criteria for Medi-Cal reimbursement to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs.Under existing law, as a criterion under both the licensing provisions and the Medi-Cal reimbursement provisions described above, the facility is required to be a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions.This bill would remove, under both sets of criteria, the certification condition of being a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions. The bill would delete the above-described proximity requirement and instead require a written policy for hospital transfer, as provided. The bill would also make a technical change to an obsolete reference within a related provision. By creating a new requirement for an alternative birth center or a primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
3029
31-Existing law provides for the licensure and regulation of various types of clinics, including alternative birth centers, by the State Department of Public Health, and makes a violation of those provisions a crime. Existing law defines an alternative birth center as a clinic that is not part of a hospital and that provides comprehensive perinatal services and delivery care to pregnant women who remain less than 24 hours at the facility. Existing law requires a licensed alternative birth center specialty clinic, and a licensed primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, to meet certain criteria, including, among others, being located in proximity to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies. emergencies, as specified.
30+Existing law provides for the licensure and regulation of various types of clinics, including alternative birth centers, by the State Department of Public Health. Health, and makes a violation of those provisions a crime. Existing law defines an alternative birth center as a clinic that is not part of a hospital and that provides comprehensive perinatal services and delivery care to pregnant women who remain less than 24 hours at the facility. Existing law requires a licensed alternative birth center specialty clinic, and a licensed primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, to meet certain criteria. criteria, including, among others, being located in proximity to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies.
3231
3332 Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions. Existing law sets forth certain criteria for Medi-Cal reimbursement to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs.
3433
3534 Under existing law, as a criterion under both the licensing provisions and the Medi-Cal reimbursement provisions described above, the facility is required to be a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions.
3635
37-This bill would remove, under both sets of criteria, the certification condition of being a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions. The bill would require the facility to provide pregnancy and postpartum services, consistent with certain standards. The bill would delete remove the above-described proximity requirement and would instead require a written policy for hospital transfer, as provided. The plan for hospital transfer. The bill would require the plan to include certain requirements with regard to providing the hospital with medical records, speaking with the receiving provider, and providing the patient with the estimated transfer time.
38-
39-The bill would also make a technical change to an obsolete reference within a related provision. By
40-
41-By creating a new requirement new requirements for an alternative birth center or a primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
36+This bill would remove, under both sets of criteria, the certification condition of being a provider of comprehensive perinatal services as defined in the Medi-Cal provisions. The bill would delete the above-described proximity requirement and instead require a written policy for hospital transfer, as provided. The bill would also make a technical change to an obsolete reference within a related provision. By creating a new requirement for an alternative birth center or a primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
4237
4338 The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
4439
4540 This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
4641
4742 ## Digest Key
4843
4944 ## Bill Text
5045
51-The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Provide pregnancy and postpartum services, including, but not limited to, psychosocial assessments, nutritional assessments, and overall health, childbirth, and parenting education, consistent with the high standards of the midwifery and birth center model of care and as described in paragraph (3).(1)(2) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2)(3) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3)(4) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer. plan for hospital transfer, which shall include, but not be limited to, both of the following:(i) A requirement that the certified nurse-midwife or licensed midwife, at the time of transfer or as soon as practicable, provide the hospital with the transferred patients or clients medical records, including prenatal records, and speak with the receiving provider who is responsible for the patients inpatient care at the time of transfer, about labor up to the point of the transfer.(ii) A requirement that the patient be provided the estimated transfer time from departure to the expected arrival at the receiving hospital, with incorporated discussions about maternal and fetal or neonatal risks and benefits with the provision of care at the alternative birth center or the primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4)(5) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).SEC. 2. Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14148.8. (a) (1) The State Department of Health Care Services shall provide Medi-Cal reimbursements to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs at a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average Medi-Cal reimbursement received by general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts and shall be based on an average hospital length of stay of 1.7 days. The reimbursement rate shall be updated annually and shall be based on the California Medical Assistance Commissions annually published legislative report of average contract rates for general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts. However, the reimbursement shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. This paragraph shall apply to Medi-Cal reimbursement for facility-related delivery costs of alternative birth centers until the effective date of any necessary federal approval obtained by the department pursuant to paragraph (2).(2) Effective no earlier than July 1, 2017, the department shall reimburse facility-related Medi-Cal delivery costs of eligible alternative birth centers based on a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average diagnosis-related groups (DRG) Level 1 rates received by general acute care hospitals pursuant to Section 14105.28 and the applicable provisions of the Medi-Cal State Plan. Reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. The department shall seek any federal approvals necessary to implement this paragraph. This paragraph shall not be implemented until any necessary federal approvals are obtained. This paragraph shall not be construed to make inoperative any existing payment reductions that are applicable to alternative birth center services, including, but not limited to, the payment reductions imposed pursuant to Section 14105.192, subject to paragraph (3).(3) Effective July 1, 2022, or the effective date specified in any necessary federal approvals obtained by the department to implement subparagraph (B) of paragraph (13) of subdivision (h) of Section 14105.192, whichever is later, reimbursement to alternative birth centers shall be exempt from the payment reductions imposed by subdivision (d) of Section 14105.192.(b) In order to be eligible for reimbursement pursuant to this section, an alternative birth center shall satisfy the following criteria as determined by the state department:(1) The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code.(2) The facility may utilize licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, certified nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists when appropriate.(3) The facility shall meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the department, including those relating to the proximity and involvement of hospitals, obstetricians, and pediatricians.(c) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section, in whole or in part, by means of provider bulletins or notices, policy letters, or other similar instructions, without taking regulatory action.(d) This section does not alter the scope of practice for any health care professional or authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or in a manner not authorized by the Health and Safety Code or the Business and Professions Code.(e) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that any necessary federal approvals are obtained and federal financial participation is available and is not otherwise jeopardized.SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
46+The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A)Be located in proximity, in time and distance, to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies, including the ability to provide cesarean section delivery, within 30 minutes from time of diagnosis of the emergency.(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).SEC. 2. Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14148.8. (a) (1) The State Department of Health Care Services shall provide Medi-Cal reimbursements to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs at a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average Medi-Cal reimbursement received by general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts and shall be based on an average hospital length of stay of 1.7 days. The reimbursement rate shall be updated annually and shall be based on the California Medical Assistance Commissions annually published legislative report of average contract rates for general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts. However, the reimbursement shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. This paragraph shall apply to Medi-Cal reimbursement for facility-related delivery costs of alternative birth centers until the effective date of any necessary federal approval obtained by the department pursuant to paragraph (2).(2) Effective no earlier than July 1, 2017, the department shall reimburse facility-related Medi-Cal delivery costs of eligible alternative birth centers based on a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average diagnosis-related groups (DRG) Level 1 rates received by general acute care hospitals pursuant to Section 14105.28 and the applicable provisions of the Medi-Cal State Plan. Reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. The department shall seek any federal approvals necessary to implement this paragraph. This paragraph shall not be implemented until any necessary federal approvals are obtained. This paragraph shall not be construed to make inoperative any existing payment reductions that are applicable to alternative birth center services, including, but not limited to, the payment reductions imposed pursuant to Section 14105.192, subject to paragraph (3).(3) Effective July 1, 2022, or the effective date specified in any necessary federal approvals obtained by the department to implement subparagraph (B) of paragraph (13) of subdivision (h) of Section 14105.192, whichever is later, reimbursement to alternative birth centers shall be exempt from the payment reductions imposed by subdivision (d) of Section 14105.192.(b) In order to be eligible for reimbursement pursuant to this section, an alternative birth center shall satisfy the following criteria as determined by the state department:(1) The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code.(2) The facility may utilize licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, certified nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists when appropriate.(3) The facility shall meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the department, including those relating to the proximity and involvement of hospitals, obstetricians, and pediatricians.(c) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section, in whole or in part, by means of provider bulletins or notices, policy letters, or other similar instructions, without taking regulatory action.(d) This section does not alter the scope of practice for any health care professional or authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or in a manner not authorized by the Health and Safety Code or the Business and Professions Code.(e) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that any necessary federal approvals are obtained and federal financial participation is available and is not otherwise jeopardized.SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
5247
5348 The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
5449
5550 ## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
5651
57-SECTION 1. Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Provide pregnancy and postpartum services, including, but not limited to, psychosocial assessments, nutritional assessments, and overall health, childbirth, and parenting education, consistent with the high standards of the midwifery and birth center model of care and as described in paragraph (3).(1)(2) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2)(3) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3)(4) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer. plan for hospital transfer, which shall include, but not be limited to, both of the following:(i) A requirement that the certified nurse-midwife or licensed midwife, at the time of transfer or as soon as practicable, provide the hospital with the transferred patients or clients medical records, including prenatal records, and speak with the receiving provider who is responsible for the patients inpatient care at the time of transfer, about labor up to the point of the transfer.(ii) A requirement that the patient be provided the estimated transfer time from departure to the expected arrival at the receiving hospital, with incorporated discussions about maternal and fetal or neonatal risks and benefits with the provision of care at the alternative birth center or the primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4)(5) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).
52+SECTION 1. Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A)Be located in proximity, in time and distance, to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies, including the ability to provide cesarean section delivery, within 30 minutes from time of diagnosis of the emergency.(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).
5853
5954 SECTION 1. Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:
6055
6156 ### SECTION 1.
6257
63-1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Provide pregnancy and postpartum services, including, but not limited to, psychosocial assessments, nutritional assessments, and overall health, childbirth, and parenting education, consistent with the high standards of the midwifery and birth center model of care and as described in paragraph (3).(1)(2) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2)(3) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3)(4) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer. plan for hospital transfer, which shall include, but not be limited to, both of the following:(i) A requirement that the certified nurse-midwife or licensed midwife, at the time of transfer or as soon as practicable, provide the hospital with the transferred patients or clients medical records, including prenatal records, and speak with the receiving provider who is responsible for the patients inpatient care at the time of transfer, about labor up to the point of the transfer.(ii) A requirement that the patient be provided the estimated transfer time from departure to the expected arrival at the receiving hospital, with incorporated discussions about maternal and fetal or neonatal risks and benefits with the provision of care at the alternative birth center or the primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4)(5) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).
58+1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A)Be located in proximity, in time and distance, to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies, including the ability to provide cesarean section delivery, within 30 minutes from time of diagnosis of the emergency.(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).
6459
65-1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Provide pregnancy and postpartum services, including, but not limited to, psychosocial assessments, nutritional assessments, and overall health, childbirth, and parenting education, consistent with the high standards of the midwifery and birth center model of care and as described in paragraph (3).(1)(2) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2)(3) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3)(4) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer. plan for hospital transfer, which shall include, but not be limited to, both of the following:(i) A requirement that the certified nurse-midwife or licensed midwife, at the time of transfer or as soon as practicable, provide the hospital with the transferred patients or clients medical records, including prenatal records, and speak with the receiving provider who is responsible for the patients inpatient care at the time of transfer, about labor up to the point of the transfer.(ii) A requirement that the patient be provided the estimated transfer time from departure to the expected arrival at the receiving hospital, with incorporated discussions about maternal and fetal or neonatal risks and benefits with the provision of care at the alternative birth center or the primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4)(5) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).
60+1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A)Be located in proximity, in time and distance, to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies, including the ability to provide cesarean section delivery, within 30 minutes from time of diagnosis of the emergency.(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).
6661
67-1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Provide pregnancy and postpartum services, including, but not limited to, psychosocial assessments, nutritional assessments, and overall health, childbirth, and parenting education, consistent with the high standards of the midwifery and birth center model of care and as described in paragraph (3).(1)(2) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2)(3) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3)(4) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer. plan for hospital transfer, which shall include, but not be limited to, both of the following:(i) A requirement that the certified nurse-midwife or licensed midwife, at the time of transfer or as soon as practicable, provide the hospital with the transferred patients or clients medical records, including prenatal records, and speak with the receiving provider who is responsible for the patients inpatient care at the time of transfer, about labor up to the point of the transfer.(ii) A requirement that the patient be provided the estimated transfer time from departure to the expected arrival at the receiving hospital, with incorporated discussions about maternal and fetal or neonatal risks and benefits with the provision of care at the alternative birth center or the primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4)(5) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).
62+1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:(1) Maintain a quality assurance program.(2) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.(3) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:(A)Be located in proximity, in time and distance, to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies, including the ability to provide cesarean section delivery, within 30 minutes from time of diagnosis of the emergency.(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer.(B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.(4) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:(A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.(B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.(C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.(b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.(c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.(2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).
6863
6964
7065
7166 1204.3. (a) An alternative birth center that is licensed as an alternative birth center specialty clinic pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1204 shall, as a condition of licensure, and a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 that provides services as an alternative birth center shall, meet all of the following requirements:
7267
73-(1) Provide pregnancy and postpartum services, including, but not limited to, psychosocial assessments, nutritional assessments, and overall health, childbirth, and parenting education, consistent with the high standards of the midwifery and birth center model of care and as described in paragraph (3).
68+(1) Maintain a quality assurance program.
7469
75-(1)
70+(2) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.
71+
72+(3) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:
73+
74+(A)Be located in proximity, in time and distance, to a facility with the capacity for management of obstetrical and neonatal emergencies, including the ability to provide cesarean section delivery, within 30 minutes from time of diagnosis of the emergency.
7675
7776
7877
79-(2) Maintain a quality assurance program.
80-
81-(2)
82-
83-
84-
85-(3) Meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the state department.
86-
87-(3)
88-
89-
90-
91-(4) In addition to standards of the American Association of Birth Centers regarding proximity to hospitals and presence of attendants at births, meet both of the following conditions:
92-
93-(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer. plan for hospital transfer, which shall include, but not be limited to, both of the following:
94-
95-(i) A requirement that the certified nurse-midwife or licensed midwife, at the time of transfer or as soon as practicable, provide the hospital with the transferred patients or clients medical records, including prenatal records, and speak with the receiving provider who is responsible for the patients inpatient care at the time of transfer, about labor up to the point of the transfer.
96-
97-(ii) A requirement that the patient be provided the estimated transfer time from departure to the expected arrival at the receiving hospital, with incorporated discussions about maternal and fetal or neonatal risks and benefits with the provision of care at the alternative birth center or the primary care clinic that provides services as an alternative birth center.
78+(A) Consistent with paragraphs (6) and (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 2746.54 of the Business and Professions Code and paragraphs (8) and (9) of subdivision (a) of Section 2508 of the Business and Professions Code, have a written policy for hospital transfer.
9879
9980 (B) Require the presence of at least two attendants at all times during birth, one of whom shall be a physician and surgeon, a licensed midwife, or a certified nurse-midwife.
10081
101-(4)
102-
103-
104-
105-(5) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:
82+(4) Have a written policy relating to the dissemination of the following information to patients:
10683
10784 (A) A summary of current state laws requiring child passenger restraint systems to be used when transporting children in motor vehicles.
10885
10986 (B) A listing of child passenger restraint system programs located within the county, as required by Section 27362 of the Vehicle Code.
11087
11188 (C) Information describing the risks of death or serious injury associated with the failure to utilize a child passenger restraint system.
11289
11390 (b) The state department shall issue a permit to a primary care clinic licensed pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1204 certifying that the primary care clinic has met the requirements of this section and may provide services as an alternative birth center. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a licensed primary care clinic obtain an additional license in order to provide services as an alternative birth center.
11491
11592 (c) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 1206, no place or establishment owned or leased and operated as a clinic or office by one or more licensed health care practitioners and used as an office for the practice of their profession, within the scope of their license, shall be represented or otherwise held out to be an alternative birth center licensed by the state unless it meets the requirements of this section.
11693
11794 (2) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to prohibit licensed health care practitioners from providing birth-related services, within the scope of their license, in a place or establishment described in paragraph (1).
11895
11996 SEC. 2. Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14148.8. (a) (1) The State Department of Health Care Services shall provide Medi-Cal reimbursements to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs at a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average Medi-Cal reimbursement received by general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts and shall be based on an average hospital length of stay of 1.7 days. The reimbursement rate shall be updated annually and shall be based on the California Medical Assistance Commissions annually published legislative report of average contract rates for general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts. However, the reimbursement shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. This paragraph shall apply to Medi-Cal reimbursement for facility-related delivery costs of alternative birth centers until the effective date of any necessary federal approval obtained by the department pursuant to paragraph (2).(2) Effective no earlier than July 1, 2017, the department shall reimburse facility-related Medi-Cal delivery costs of eligible alternative birth centers based on a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average diagnosis-related groups (DRG) Level 1 rates received by general acute care hospitals pursuant to Section 14105.28 and the applicable provisions of the Medi-Cal State Plan. Reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. The department shall seek any federal approvals necessary to implement this paragraph. This paragraph shall not be implemented until any necessary federal approvals are obtained. This paragraph shall not be construed to make inoperative any existing payment reductions that are applicable to alternative birth center services, including, but not limited to, the payment reductions imposed pursuant to Section 14105.192, subject to paragraph (3).(3) Effective July 1, 2022, or the effective date specified in any necessary federal approvals obtained by the department to implement subparagraph (B) of paragraph (13) of subdivision (h) of Section 14105.192, whichever is later, reimbursement to alternative birth centers shall be exempt from the payment reductions imposed by subdivision (d) of Section 14105.192.(b) In order to be eligible for reimbursement pursuant to this section, an alternative birth center shall satisfy the following criteria as determined by the state department:(1) The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code.(2) The facility may utilize licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, certified nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists when appropriate.(3) The facility shall meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the department, including those relating to the proximity and involvement of hospitals, obstetricians, and pediatricians.(c) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section, in whole or in part, by means of provider bulletins or notices, policy letters, or other similar instructions, without taking regulatory action.(d) This section does not alter the scope of practice for any health care professional or authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or in a manner not authorized by the Health and Safety Code or the Business and Professions Code.(e) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that any necessary federal approvals are obtained and federal financial participation is available and is not otherwise jeopardized.
12097
12198 SEC. 2. Section 14148.8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:
12299
123100 ### SEC. 2.
124101
125102 14148.8. (a) (1) The State Department of Health Care Services shall provide Medi-Cal reimbursements to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs at a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average Medi-Cal reimbursement received by general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts and shall be based on an average hospital length of stay of 1.7 days. The reimbursement rate shall be updated annually and shall be based on the California Medical Assistance Commissions annually published legislative report of average contract rates for general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts. However, the reimbursement shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. This paragraph shall apply to Medi-Cal reimbursement for facility-related delivery costs of alternative birth centers until the effective date of any necessary federal approval obtained by the department pursuant to paragraph (2).(2) Effective no earlier than July 1, 2017, the department shall reimburse facility-related Medi-Cal delivery costs of eligible alternative birth centers based on a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average diagnosis-related groups (DRG) Level 1 rates received by general acute care hospitals pursuant to Section 14105.28 and the applicable provisions of the Medi-Cal State Plan. Reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. The department shall seek any federal approvals necessary to implement this paragraph. This paragraph shall not be implemented until any necessary federal approvals are obtained. This paragraph shall not be construed to make inoperative any existing payment reductions that are applicable to alternative birth center services, including, but not limited to, the payment reductions imposed pursuant to Section 14105.192, subject to paragraph (3).(3) Effective July 1, 2022, or the effective date specified in any necessary federal approvals obtained by the department to implement subparagraph (B) of paragraph (13) of subdivision (h) of Section 14105.192, whichever is later, reimbursement to alternative birth centers shall be exempt from the payment reductions imposed by subdivision (d) of Section 14105.192.(b) In order to be eligible for reimbursement pursuant to this section, an alternative birth center shall satisfy the following criteria as determined by the state department:(1) The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code.(2) The facility may utilize licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, certified nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists when appropriate.(3) The facility shall meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the department, including those relating to the proximity and involvement of hospitals, obstetricians, and pediatricians.(c) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section, in whole or in part, by means of provider bulletins or notices, policy letters, or other similar instructions, without taking regulatory action.(d) This section does not alter the scope of practice for any health care professional or authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or in a manner not authorized by the Health and Safety Code or the Business and Professions Code.(e) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that any necessary federal approvals are obtained and federal financial participation is available and is not otherwise jeopardized.
126103
127104 14148.8. (a) (1) The State Department of Health Care Services shall provide Medi-Cal reimbursements to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs at a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average Medi-Cal reimbursement received by general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts and shall be based on an average hospital length of stay of 1.7 days. The reimbursement rate shall be updated annually and shall be based on the California Medical Assistance Commissions annually published legislative report of average contract rates for general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts. However, the reimbursement shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. This paragraph shall apply to Medi-Cal reimbursement for facility-related delivery costs of alternative birth centers until the effective date of any necessary federal approval obtained by the department pursuant to paragraph (2).(2) Effective no earlier than July 1, 2017, the department shall reimburse facility-related Medi-Cal delivery costs of eligible alternative birth centers based on a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average diagnosis-related groups (DRG) Level 1 rates received by general acute care hospitals pursuant to Section 14105.28 and the applicable provisions of the Medi-Cal State Plan. Reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. The department shall seek any federal approvals necessary to implement this paragraph. This paragraph shall not be implemented until any necessary federal approvals are obtained. This paragraph shall not be construed to make inoperative any existing payment reductions that are applicable to alternative birth center services, including, but not limited to, the payment reductions imposed pursuant to Section 14105.192, subject to paragraph (3).(3) Effective July 1, 2022, or the effective date specified in any necessary federal approvals obtained by the department to implement subparagraph (B) of paragraph (13) of subdivision (h) of Section 14105.192, whichever is later, reimbursement to alternative birth centers shall be exempt from the payment reductions imposed by subdivision (d) of Section 14105.192.(b) In order to be eligible for reimbursement pursuant to this section, an alternative birth center shall satisfy the following criteria as determined by the state department:(1) The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code.(2) The facility may utilize licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, certified nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists when appropriate.(3) The facility shall meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the department, including those relating to the proximity and involvement of hospitals, obstetricians, and pediatricians.(c) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section, in whole or in part, by means of provider bulletins or notices, policy letters, or other similar instructions, without taking regulatory action.(d) This section does not alter the scope of practice for any health care professional or authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or in a manner not authorized by the Health and Safety Code or the Business and Professions Code.(e) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that any necessary federal approvals are obtained and federal financial participation is available and is not otherwise jeopardized.
128105
129106 14148.8. (a) (1) The State Department of Health Care Services shall provide Medi-Cal reimbursements to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs at a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average Medi-Cal reimbursement received by general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts and shall be based on an average hospital length of stay of 1.7 days. The reimbursement rate shall be updated annually and shall be based on the California Medical Assistance Commissions annually published legislative report of average contract rates for general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts. However, the reimbursement shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. This paragraph shall apply to Medi-Cal reimbursement for facility-related delivery costs of alternative birth centers until the effective date of any necessary federal approval obtained by the department pursuant to paragraph (2).(2) Effective no earlier than July 1, 2017, the department shall reimburse facility-related Medi-Cal delivery costs of eligible alternative birth centers based on a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average diagnosis-related groups (DRG) Level 1 rates received by general acute care hospitals pursuant to Section 14105.28 and the applicable provisions of the Medi-Cal State Plan. Reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. The department shall seek any federal approvals necessary to implement this paragraph. This paragraph shall not be implemented until any necessary federal approvals are obtained. This paragraph shall not be construed to make inoperative any existing payment reductions that are applicable to alternative birth center services, including, but not limited to, the payment reductions imposed pursuant to Section 14105.192, subject to paragraph (3).(3) Effective July 1, 2022, or the effective date specified in any necessary federal approvals obtained by the department to implement subparagraph (B) of paragraph (13) of subdivision (h) of Section 14105.192, whichever is later, reimbursement to alternative birth centers shall be exempt from the payment reductions imposed by subdivision (d) of Section 14105.192.(b) In order to be eligible for reimbursement pursuant to this section, an alternative birth center shall satisfy the following criteria as determined by the state department:(1) The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code.(2) The facility may utilize licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, certified nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists when appropriate.(3) The facility shall meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the department, including those relating to the proximity and involvement of hospitals, obstetricians, and pediatricians.(c) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section, in whole or in part, by means of provider bulletins or notices, policy letters, or other similar instructions, without taking regulatory action.(d) This section does not alter the scope of practice for any health care professional or authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or in a manner not authorized by the Health and Safety Code or the Business and Professions Code.(e) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that any necessary federal approvals are obtained and federal financial participation is available and is not otherwise jeopardized.
130107
131108
132109
133110 14148.8. (a) (1) The State Department of Health Care Services shall provide Medi-Cal reimbursements to alternative birth centers for facility-related delivery costs at a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average Medi-Cal reimbursement received by general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts and shall be based on an average hospital length of stay of 1.7 days. The reimbursement rate shall be updated annually and shall be based on the California Medical Assistance Commissions annually published legislative report of average contract rates for general acute care hospitals with Medi-Cal contracts. However, the reimbursement shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. This paragraph shall apply to Medi-Cal reimbursement for facility-related delivery costs of alternative birth centers until the effective date of any necessary federal approval obtained by the department pursuant to paragraph (2).
134111
135112 (2) Effective no earlier than July 1, 2017, the department shall reimburse facility-related Medi-Cal delivery costs of eligible alternative birth centers based on a statewide all-inclusive rate per delivery that shall not exceed 80 percent of the average diagnosis-related groups (DRG) Level 1 rates received by general acute care hospitals pursuant to Section 14105.28 and the applicable provisions of the Medi-Cal State Plan. Reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall not exceed the alternative birth centers charges to any non-Medi-Cal patient for similar services. The department shall seek any federal approvals necessary to implement this paragraph. This paragraph shall not be implemented until any necessary federal approvals are obtained. This paragraph shall not be construed to make inoperative any existing payment reductions that are applicable to alternative birth center services, including, but not limited to, the payment reductions imposed pursuant to Section 14105.192, subject to paragraph (3).
136113
137114 (3) Effective July 1, 2022, or the effective date specified in any necessary federal approvals obtained by the department to implement subparagraph (B) of paragraph (13) of subdivision (h) of Section 14105.192, whichever is later, reimbursement to alternative birth centers shall be exempt from the payment reductions imposed by subdivision (d) of Section 14105.192.
138115
139116 (b) In order to be eligible for reimbursement pursuant to this section, an alternative birth center shall satisfy the following criteria as determined by the state department:
140117
141118 (1) The facility shall meet all applicable requirements of Section 1204.3 of the Health and Safety Code.
142119
143120 (2) The facility may utilize licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, certified nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists when appropriate.
144121
145122 (3) The facility shall meet the standards for certification established by the American Association of Birth Centers, or at least equivalent standards as determined by the department, including those relating to the proximity and involvement of hospitals, obstetricians, and pediatricians.
146123
147124 (c) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section, in whole or in part, by means of provider bulletins or notices, policy letters, or other similar instructions, without taking regulatory action.
148125
149126 (d) This section does not alter the scope of practice for any health care professional or authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or in a manner not authorized by the Health and Safety Code or the Business and Professions Code.
150127
151128 (e) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that any necessary federal approvals are obtained and federal financial participation is available and is not otherwise jeopardized.
152129
153130 SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
154131
155132 SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
156133
157134 SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
158135
159136 ### SEC. 3.