Hospice Care Programs - Certificate of Need - Repeal
Impact
The passage of HB 810 could have significant implications on state regulations governing health care facilities. Supporters argue that removing the CON requirement may lead to increased competition among hospice providers, potentially improving the quality and accessibility of care for patients and their families. It may also encourage the entry of more private providers into the market, thereby addressing wait times and service gaps that currently exist in hospice care.
Summary
House Bill 810 proposes the repeal of the requirement for hospice care programs to obtain a certificate of need (CON) to build or expand facilities. This legislation represents a significant shift in the way that hospice care services can be developed and operated in Maryland, aiming to streamline the process for organizations seeking to enhance or establish hospice services. By eliminating the CON requirement, the bill intends to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and potentially make it easier for hospice programs to meet the growing demands for end-of-life care services within the state.
Contention
Opponents of the bill express concern that repealing the CON requirement could undermine quality control in hospice care. The CON process is designed to ensure that new services align with community health needs and standards. Critics fear that without this regulatory oversight, there may be an influx of substandard services or facilities that do not maintain the necessary quality of care. Additionally, there is concern that this change might lead to an over-saturation of facilities in certain areas while neglecting more rural regions that still require enhancement in hospice services.