Chapter 9Mobile Health Care Units
Section § 1765.101
This section introduces the name of the law, which is the Mobile Health Care Services Act. It establishes a framework for understanding and referring to regulations related to mobile health care services.
Section § 1765.105
This law explains the terminology used in a specific chapter. It defines a "parent facility" as either a health facility or a clinic that is officially licensed. A "mobile service unit" or "mobile unit" is a type of special-purpose vehicle that provides specific services and meets certain state approval or licensing criteria. It is not just any mobile structure but is specifically set up to provide health services and must be licensed or approved in some way by the state. This statute also clarifies that mobile units cannot be those designed for permanent installation, nor exempt entities.
Section § 1765.110
This law is about allowing mobile units to deliver medical services in places where health care is hard to access, like remote or underserved communities. It aims to provide high-quality health care that is also cost-effective, and to meet the needs of patients requiring specialized medical care.
Section § 1765.115
This law section explains how a mobile unit can legally operate. It can function in one of three ways: as part of an already licensed health facility or clinic, as a standalone clinic in accordance with specific regulations, or as another type of approved mobile unit.
Section § 1765.117
This law outlines fees for applicants seeking licenses for health facilities or clinics in California. These fees depend on existing laws or new categories created under the Health and Safety Code. However, there won't be any extra fees just because services are provided in a mobile unit.
Section § 1765.120
Before a mobile unit can be licensed, it needs to meet certain requirements. It must follow the rules set by the Vehicle Code and have a vehicle identification number. Additionally, it should display a special insignia issued by the Department of Housing and Community Development, as outlined in Section 18026.
Section § 1765.125
If you want to run a mobile service unit, you need a special license unless you're specifically exempt. This applies to people, local government bodies, or state agencies, unless a different section exempts them.
If you were already operating a mobile unit before 1994, you could keep it running, but you must apply for a license by March 1, 1994, or stop if your application is rejected.
Once you have the license, each location doesn't need separate approval unless the unit goes outside the areas you listed in your application.
Section § 1765.130
If you want to apply to operate a mobile health facility or clinic, you'll need to submit specific information to the state department using their forms. This includes details like what services you plan to offer, when you'll be open, and the type of mobile unit you'll use.
The state will inspect facilities before granting a mobile unit license. If your mobile unit is part of an existing facility, this will be noted as a supplemental service. Licenses must be displayed at both the main facility and inside the mobile unit.
Section § 1765.135
If you want to get a license under this chapter, you need to meet all the requirements laid out in this chapter, plus any relevant rules from other specified chapters. You'll also need to submit a complete application to the state department.
Section § 1765.140
If a mobile unit operates as part of an existing licensed facility, it must follow the same rules and regulations as the main facility. However, for physical requirements, mobile units must meet specific mobile unit standards provided in this chapter instead of those meant for the main facility.
Similarly, if a clinic is licensed as a mobile unit, it has to adhere to the same rules as other clinics but must follow the special physical standards for mobile units rather than the usual clinic requirements.
Section § 1765.145
This law section outlines inspection requirements for licensees using mobile services. The department can choose to conduct additional inspections of these services beyond what's normally required for the licensee's main facility. Inspections ensure compliance with the chapter's rules and involve reviewing documents and accessing any part of the mobile service or facility as needed.
The department's officers can inspect buildings, premises, vehicles, and documents at reasonable times to check for compliance. After getting a license, or adding a mobile service to a licensed parent facility, the mobile service is regularly reviewed for compliance. If the mobile unit is an independent clinic, it follows a usual inspection schedule for clinics.
There's also a requirement for department staff to observe a mock emergency drill on-site, especially where it's difficult for patients to move.
Section § 1765.150
This law outlines the requirements for mobile health units in California. Mobile units must be properly sized and equipped for the health services they offer and ensure patient comfort and safety, with certain utilities approved by a state agency. They must be kept clean and in good condition. Any changes to services or the mobile unit must receive state approval before implementation. Licensees must inform the state of where the mobile unit will be used at least 24 hours in advance, except during emergencies declared by authorities, where notification is waived.
Section § 1765.155
This law section outlines responsibilities for a licensed parent facility or clinic that uses mobile units. The facility must get approvals from local authorities for any site where the mobile unit will be located. The mobile unit should be easily accessible and comply with parking laws, and any facility-created parking rules must be followed. Additionally, the clinic must ensure there is enough lighting around the mobile unit's site.
Section § 1765.160
This law requires any licensed providers using mobile health services to have detailed written policies set by their governing body. These policies should cover various aspects like patient care, staff training, and service evaluations.
They must also have procedures for selecting patients and coordinating these policies with their main facility's requirements. The policies need approval from relevant administration and medical staff.
The policies should include details on services offered, procedures, quality assurance, infection control, record-keeping, patient transport, and emergency response.
Mobile services need to ensure that their emergency plans align with the parent facility's and educate both staff and patients on these procedures.
They must also have transfer agreements with nearby hospitals for emergencies, and keep detailed logs of clinical records and services provided on each patient.
Section § 1765.165
This law states that hospitals cannot use mobile units as the primary source for basic services, except during emergencies like natural disasters.
If a hospital operates a mobile unit, it must be licensed through the hospital. The mobile unit is considered part of the hospital for licensing, and the hospital must document who is responsible for it.
The hospital has to ensure quality practices in the mobile unit and handle any legal issues if standards aren't met. Lastly, the hospital must coordinate with the mobile unit vehicle's owner to ensure it's available for necessary inspections.
Section § 1765.170
This law specifies requirements for mobile medical units. They must be equipped with the necessary supplies and equipment to care for patients and comply with safety standards for X-ray equipment according to state radiation regulations. Mobile units need proper fire safety gear, including two fire extinguishers. Equipment used must follow the manufacturer's guidelines, and there should be records of regular maintenance and calibration. Additionally, a telecommunications device must be present in the unit.
Section § 1765.175
This law requires the state department to create or change rules to support the goals of the chapter. Before these rules are in place, specific clinics like chronic hemodialysis, surgery, or rehabilitation clinics, including mobile units, must follow federal standards for similar healthcare facilities.