R432-106-2. Purpose

The purpose of this rule is to promote the public health and welfare through establishment of a specialty hospital category for rural hospitals. Its intent is to allow rural communities to: preserve access to primary care and emergency health care services, provide health care services which meet community needs, and help assure the financial viability of program participants through improved reimbursement and different operating requirements. The rule sets standards for the operation of a Critical Access Hospital,(CAH). The standards of patient care apply to inpatient, outpatient, and satellite services.