Regulations for the Licensure of Hospitals in Virginia - Essay Example

Next, according to 12 VAC 5-410-140, a hospital must undergo an inspection, unless previously accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and certified for participation in Title XVIII of the Social Security Act. If the hospital has already been approved by these two organizations, it can be assumed that it will fulfill all requirements of the Department of Health. Thus, it is easier if the accreditation and certification process is completed before applying for a license, but not mandatory.

If the hospital has not already been accredited and certified, before obtaining a license then the hospital must undergo a rigorous inspection according to Part II of the Regulations for Licensure of Hospitals. Part II covers Organization and Management, Patient Care Services, Special Services, Environmental and Maintenance Services, and Physical Plant Requirements for existing Buildings. The differing parts of the inspection are not listed in detail, but it does list that the hospital has an opportunity to submit a plan of correction.

(12 VAC 5-410-150)According to Part II of the Virginia State Board of Health's "Rules and Regulations for the Licensure of Hospitals in Virginia" the governing body of the hospital "may be an individual, group, corporation, or governmental agency." (12 VAC 5-410-180) The governing body of the hospital has many requirements the body is primarily in charge of management and control of the operations of the hospital. They are to maintain written bylaws, rules, and regulations. The governing body also must file a copy of the said document with the Office of Licensing on request.

These bylaws must include a statement of purpose, qualifications for membership, functions, and duties, and specifications of meeting duties. Also required is a Chief executive officer who"Shall be directly responsible to the governing body for the management and operation of the hospital and shall provide liaison between the governing body and medical staff." (12 VAC 5-410-190)The chief executive officer is answerable to the Governing body, acting primarily as a representative of the governing body to the hospital staff.

Ownership of the hospital must also be disclosed. (12 VAC 5-410-170) Any individual or entity holding 5% or more ownership shall be identified by name and address.