BIRTH CENTERS PUBLIC HEARING JULY 28

[Gayle]

Finally, a status update on Birth Center Rules!

There is notice posted on the Health Facilities and Services Review Board website for a Public Hearing scheduled for July 28, 2011.Public Hearing Birth Center Rules July 28, 2011

Oak Forest City Hall

15440 S Central Ave, Oak Forest IL 60452

10:00 a.m. - 2 p.m.  

See http://www.hfsrb.illinois.gov/

 

Go to  Birth Center Model Rules Approved by Board May 10, 2011 to see what is proposed.  The timeline moving forward is in need of clarification, but our understanding is that the HFSRB must have Rules which are also approved by JCAR.  the Hearing is part of that process. This is in order to develop the Certificate of Need process and application, which is separate from the IDPH Rules for the Birth Center demonstration Program, which have been approved.

Let me know if you plan on attending!

Gayle

Chair, Illinois Birth Center Task Force

[Gayle]

I attended the Hearing held by the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board on July 28.  I gave testimony in support of establishing Birth Centers in Illinois, and went on record suggesting specific changes to the amendments proposed by the HFSRB.

There was no opposing testimony, and the Hearing ended without incident or concern.

Next steps as described by Courtney Avery who presided at the meeting:  The application for Certificate of Need will be developed and posted online at www.hfsrb.illinois.gov.  Perhaps as early as next week.   Watch for it!

However, The Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) must also approve the proposed HFSRB amendments.  The next meeting of JCAR is in August, but we are not guaranteed that Birth Center Rules will be on the agenda.  We will keep you updated.  Once JCAR approves the HFSRB Rules, the application for establishment of a Birth Center can be submitted.

Still moving through the process... but getting closer!

Sincerely,

Gayle