CA AB2673

Replaces terminology with "hospice agency" and establishes that licenses are non-transferable; only the initially licensed person or entity may use the license for 5 years, and ownership changes are prohibited during this period except under extenuating circumstances.

Requires applicants without prior hospice licensure to demonstrate unmet need for hospice services in their geographic region; mandates submission of detailed personnel information (administrator, medical director, directors of patient care) and verification of professional credentials by March 31, 2023.

Adds grounds for license denial, suspension, or revocation including improper patient certification for hospice eligibility and demonstration of a pattern of violations within the last 3 years of any hospice agency owned or operated by the applicant.

Extends the moratorium on new hospice agency licenses until the earlier of 2 years from publication of the State Auditor's report or adoption of emergency regulations; exempts licensed hospice facilities from the moratorium.

Requires the Department of Public Health to adopt emergency regulations by January 1, 2024 implementing State Auditor recommendations, including standards for nurse-to-patient ratios, management personnel qualifications, time and distance standards, and office space requirements.