R432-106-2. Purpose

(1) The purpose of this rule is to promote public health and welfare through establishment of a specialty hospital category for rural hospitals. The intent is to allow rural communities to: (a) preserve access to primary care and emergency health care services; (b) provide health care services that meet community needs; and (c) assure the financial viability of program participants through improved reimbursement and operating requirements. (2) The rule sets standards for the operation of a Critical Access Hospital, (CAH).