Indiana adds new regulations for hospital licensure and outpatient surgical centers

House Bill 1457, introduced in the Indiana House on April 17, 2025, aims to update and standardize regulations concerning the licensure of hospitals and ambulatory outpatient surgical centers in the state. The bill proposes to incorporate the latest guidelines from the Facility Guidelines Institute (FGI) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) into Indiana's healthcare facility regulations, ensuring that state standards align with national best practices.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for the Indiana State Department of Health to adopt the most recent versions of the FGI Guidelines for Design and Construction of Hospitals and Outpatient Facilities, as well as the NFPA 101 Life Safety Code and NFPA 99 Health Care Facilities Code. This alignment is intended to enhance safety and operational standards within healthcare facilities across Indiana.

The bill also mandates that the state department maintain transparency by listing the versions of the guidelines being utilized on its website. Furthermore, it establishes a timeline for the adoption of new versions of these guidelines, requiring the department to notify the public within 90 days of a new publication and to implement the changes within a specified timeframe.

While the bill has garnered support for its focus on improving healthcare safety standards, it has faced some opposition. Critics argue that the rapid adoption of new guidelines could impose additional financial burdens on healthcare facilities, particularly smaller ones that may struggle to meet updated requirements. Proponents counter that the long-term benefits of enhanced safety and compliance with national standards outweigh the initial costs.

The implications of House Bill 1457 are significant, as it seeks to elevate the quality of healthcare services in Indiana while addressing safety concerns that have become increasingly important in the wake of recent healthcare challenges. If passed, the bill could lead to improved patient outcomes and a more robust healthcare infrastructure in the state.

As the legislative process continues, stakeholders from various sectors, including healthcare providers and patient advocacy groups, are closely monitoring the bill's progress, anticipating its potential impact on Indiana's healthcare landscape.