The Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490, also known as the Hospital Licensing Act, provides the framework for the regulation of healthcare institutions in the state of Connecticut. This statute outlines the requirements for the licensing and operation of hospitals, including general hospitals, specialty hospitals, and psychiatric hospitals. The statute is enforced by the Connecticut Department of Public Health, which is responsible for ensuring that healthcare institutions in the state comply with the relevant laws and regulations.
Overview of Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490
Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490 sets forth the requirements for the licensing of healthcare institutions in the state. The statute requires that all hospitals, including general hospitals, specialty hospitals, and psychiatric hospitals, obtain a license from the Connecticut Department of Public Health before operating. The license must be renewed annually, and the hospital must comply with the requirements set forth in the statute and the regulations promulgated by the Department of Public Health. The statute also outlines the process for the suspension or revocation of a hospital’s license, as well as the procedures for appealing a decision by the Department of Public Health.
Licensing Requirements
To obtain a license, a healthcare institution must submit an application to the Connecticut Department of Public Health, which includes providing information about the institution’s ownership, management, and staffing. The institution must also demonstrate that it has the necessary facilities, equipment, and personnel to provide safe and effective care to patients. The Department of Public Health will conduct an inspection of the institution to verify compliance with the requirements set forth in the statute and regulations. The institution must also pay a licensing fee, which is set by the Department of Public Health.
The licensing requirements for healthcare institutions in Connecticut include:
- Compliance with the Joint Commission standards for hospitals
- Maintenance of a minimum staffing ratio of registered nurses to patients
- Implementation of a quality improvement program to monitor and improve patient care
- Compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requirements for patient confidentiality
Enforcement and Penalties
The Connecticut Department of Public Health has the authority to enforce the provisions of Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490. The Department may conduct inspections of healthcare institutions to verify compliance with the requirements set forth in the statute and regulations. If a healthcare institution is found to be non-compliant, the Department may impose penalties, including fines and the suspension or revocation of the institution's license. The institution may appeal a decision by the Department of Public Health to the Connecticut Superior Court.
The penalties for non-compliance with Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490 include:
| Type of Penalty | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fine for non-compliance | Up to $10,000 per day |
| Suspension of license | Up to 6 months |
| Revocation of license | Permanent |
Impact on Healthcare Institutions
Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490 has a significant impact on healthcare institutions in the state. The statute requires healthcare institutions to maintain high standards of patient care and to comply with the requirements set forth in the statute and regulations. The statute also provides a framework for the regulation of healthcare institutions, which helps to ensure that patients receive safe and effective care. Healthcare institutions that fail to comply with the statute and regulations may face penalties, including fines and the suspension or revocation of their license.
The impact of Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490 on healthcare institutions includes:
- Improved patient care: The statute requires healthcare institutions to maintain high standards of patient care, which helps to ensure that patients receive safe and effective care.
- Increased accountability: The statute provides a framework for the regulation of healthcare institutions, which helps to ensure that healthcare institutions are accountable for the care they provide.
- Enhanced transparency: The statute requires healthcare institutions to disclose certain information to patients, including information about their rights and responsibilities.
What is the purpose of Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490?
+The purpose of Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490 is to regulate healthcare institutions in the state of Connecticut, including general hospitals, specialty hospitals, and psychiatric hospitals. The statute requires healthcare institutions to maintain high standards of patient care and to comply with the requirements set forth in the statute and regulations.
What are the licensing requirements for healthcare institutions in Connecticut?
+To obtain a license, a healthcare institution must submit an application to the Connecticut Department of Public Health, which includes providing information about the institution’s ownership, management, and staffing. The institution must also demonstrate that it has the necessary facilities, equipment, and personnel to provide safe and effective care to patients.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490?
+The penalties for non-compliance with Connecticut General Statutes Section 19a-490 include fines, suspension of license, and revocation of license. The institution may appeal a decision by the Department of Public Health to the Connecticut Superior Court.
