Relates to the establishment of convenient care clinics

3 Co-sponsors

• William J. Larkin Jr.
• Suzi Oppenheimer
• Michael H. Ranzenhofer

BILL NUMBER:S3673B

Title of bill

An act to amend the public health law, in relation to the establishment of convenient care clinics

Purpose

To create standards for the establishment and operation of convenient care clinics.

Summary of provisions

Section one of the bill amends section 2801-a of the public health law to include a $1000 application fee for convenient care clinics. Section two amends section 2801-a of the public health law by adding a new subdivision 17 authorizing legal entities formed under the laws of New York to operate convenient care clinics provided that they comply with all applicable requirements and demonstrate to the satisfaction of the public health council sufficient experience and expertise in delivering high quality health care services. The public health council is directed to amend rules and regulations to address any matter pertinent to the establishment and operation of convenient care clinics. This section also clarifies that several provisions of 2801-a relating to corpo- rations do not apply to convenient care clinics. This section further provides that a convenient care clinic shall be deemed to be a "health care provider" for the purposes of title 2-D of article two of the public health law (health care provider referrals). A prescriber prac- ticing in a convenient care clinic shall not be deemed to be in the employ of a pharmacy or practicing in a hospital for purposes of section 6807 (2) of the education law. In addition, this section directs the Commissioner to promulgate regulations for convenient care clinics, which may be different from the regulations applicable to diagnostic or treatment centers. In making the regulations, the Commissioner must consult with a workgroup which includes representatives of professional societies of health care professionals and promote and strengthen prima- ry care and integration of services. Section two provides the effective date.

Section three provides an effective date.

Justification

Convenient care clinics already exist in several locations throughout New York State. However, there is currently no statutory or regulatory scheme in place that specifically addresses these entities. This bill will ensure that all convenient care clinics are created and operated according to set standards. By establishing these regulations, the state will be better able to monitor convenient care clinics to make certain that they are providing safe, high quality health care services.

Legislative history

Same as S.8275 2010 Referred to Rules.

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.