In a recent webinar hosted by the Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) in California, officials unveiled critical updates regarding seismic compliance for hospitals, a topic that has significant implications for healthcare facilities statewide. As the clock ticks toward the 2026 deadline, the meeting provided clarity on the new requirements and processes that hospitals must navigate to ensure safety and compliance.

The session kicked off with the introduction of a newly published PIN 80, which outlines the seismic compliance plan application process. This plan, a requirement since 2001, has been revamped into an automated and interactive tool designed to simplify the submission process. Hospitals are now tasked with submitting a straightforward plan that includes two brief tables detailing the seismic scope and schedule for compliance. The deadline for all hospitals to submit this plan is set for January 1, 2026.

In addition to the compliance plan, the webinar addressed the delay application under Assembly Bill H69. This provision allows certain eligible hospitals—such as small, rural, and critical access facilities—to apply for a three-year extension on their seismic compliance deadlines, pushing the final date to 2030. However, eligibility is limited, and hospitals must submit both the delay application and the seismic compliance plan to qualify for this extension.

The discussion highlighted the importance of accountability, noting that hospitals must adhere to specific milestones within their compliance plans. HCAI has a 120-day window to approve or deny these plans, and if a plan is denied, hospitals have the opportunity to address any deficiencies noted in the denial letter. Failure to meet the established milestones could result in fines and delays in permit issuance, emphasizing the need for hospitals to stay on track.

As California continues to prioritize the safety of its healthcare infrastructure, the implications of these updates are profound. Hospitals must now navigate a complex landscape of compliance requirements while ensuring they meet the necessary deadlines to protect both their facilities and the communities they serve. The stakes are high, and as the deadline approaches, the pressure mounts for hospitals to act decisively and responsibly.