MA H2469

Hospitals must notify the Department of Public Health at least one calendar year in advance before closing or discontinuing an essential health service

At least 30 days before filing closure notice, hospitals must inform the patient and family council, all staff members, labor organizations, local General Court members, and local officials of their intent

Hospitals must provide evidence of municipal support or non-opposition to proposed service closures, and submit a plan for assuring continued access to necessary services that includes creation of a community oversight committee

Attorney General shall seek an injunction against hospitals that discontinue essential services without department-approved plans, and violating hospitals become ineligible for certain applications for three years

Hospitals are prohibited from closing any beds, units, or facilities during any declared state of emergency pertaining to health care