GA HB1299

Authorizes county and municipal hospital authorities in Georgia to acquire, develop, operate, or equip "rural joint venture outpatient healthcare facilities" in partnership with physician groups

Defines "rural county" as having fewer than 50,000 population based on the 2020 census, excluding military personnel and dependents in counties with military bases

Requires hospital authorities to maintain at least 51% ownership of joint venture facilities, with physician groups limited to no more than 49% ownership

Limits eligible physician partners to a single group practicing the same medical specialty, and facilities must be located in the same rural county as an existing hospital authority-owned hospital

Defines covered facilities as freestanding medical facilities providing diagnostic, treatment, or rehabilitative services for fewer than 24 continuous hours, excluding hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living communities, and personal care homes