Article 2.5. Licensing Of Clinics of California Health And Safety Code >> Division 2. >> Chapter 1. >> Article 2.5.

For purposes of this article, the following definitions shall apply:
  (a) "Centralized applications unit" means the centralized applications unit in the Licensing and Certification Division of the State Department of Health Services, or a successor entity.
  (b) "Clinic" means nonprofit primary care clinics, nonprofit community health centers, nonprofit community clinics, and free clinics.

Commencing July 1, 2002, all new applications for licenses for clinics shall be reviewed by the centralized applications unit.

Commencing January 1, 2002, the centralized applications unit shall work with organizations that are among and advocate on behalf of, clinics to streamline application forms and clarify information needed to qualify as completed.

Commencing January 1, 2002, a telephone number shall be provided for applicants to verify receipt of their application by the Licensing and Certification Division.

All new applications submitted to the centralized applications unit shall be reviewed within two weeks for completeness. The centralized applications unit shall resolve minor issues directly with the applicant.

(a) Commencing January 1, 2002, the Licensing and Certification Division shall designate at least one surveyor in each of the four regions to specialize in clinic surveys and complaint investigations. The program shall cross-train additional staff in this specialty.
  (b) Commencing January 1, 2002, all completed packages forwarded by the centralized applications unit to the regional clinic specialists shall be scheduled for survey within 30 days of receipt.

The Licensing and Certification Program training unit shall work with organizations that are among and advocate on behalf of clinics and other stakeholders to develop a training curriculum on clinic specialization, including the special needs of rural clinics.

The centralized applications unit and regional offices shall be routinely reviewed by the department beginning January 31, 2003, to determine if applications for clinic licenses are processed in a timely and effective manner.