In a crucial meeting held by the Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) in California, officials discussed the seismic performance compliance requirements for healthcare facilities, particularly focusing on the removal of general acute care services. As the clock ticks toward the 2026 compliance deadline, stakeholders are urged to engage early in the planning process to ensure adherence to the new regulations.

The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration among owners, architects, and structural engineers. Participants were reminded that any modifications to healthcare facilities must comply with specific Seismic Performance Category (SPC) and Minimum Performance Criteria (MPC) ratings. The discussion emphasized the necessity of consulting with regional architects and compliance units to navigate the complexities of these requirements effectively.

A significant point raised was the transition of older buildings, particularly those constructed before 1973, to meet the new standards. The officials explained that facilities wishing to remove general acute care services must first be under HCAI jurisdiction before they can be designated as OSHPD 1R, a classification for buildings that have ceased to provide acute care but still fall under regulatory oversight.

Deadlines were a focal point of the conversation. By January 1, 2026, healthcare facilities must submit a Seismic Compliance Plan indicating their intent to remove general acute care services. Following this, construction documents related to the OSHPD 1R designation must be submitted by March 1, 2026. Failure to meet these deadlines could result in restrictions on building permits, limiting them to seismic compliance, maintenance, and emergency repairs only.

As the healthcare landscape evolves, the urgency for compliance grows. The meeting underscored the critical need for proactive planning and communication among all parties involved to ensure that California's healthcare facilities not only meet safety standards but also continue to serve their communities effectively. With the 2026 deadline looming, the call to action is clear: engage early, plan wisely, and comply diligently.