Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the State Board of Health intends to consider amending the following regulations: 12VAC5-381, Regulations for the Licensure of Home Care Organizations. The purpose of the proposed action is to update the regulations in light of changes occurring since 2005. The board amendments under consideration include, but are not limited to:

1. Amending the licensure process to provide a better understanding of the section requirements for first-time providers,

2. Adding a section addressing allowable business locations,

3. Clarifying the financial controls section so there is better understanding of the requirements for first-time providers,

4. Easing or eliminating the requirements pertaining to the medical social services section, and

5. Clarifying the supervisory criteria in the personal care section to allow expansion and greater consumer access to needed personal care services. In addition, the department believes there is provider community support for increasing service fees.

The agency does not intend to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 32.1-162.12 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comments: Public comments may be submitted until June 24, 2009.

Agency Contact: Carrie Eddy, Policy Analyst, Department of Health, 3600 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23230-4920, telephone (804) 367-2102, FAX (804) 367-2149, or email carrie.eddy@vdh.virginia.gov.