Section 210.2000  Length of Stay

a)         The maximum length of stay for patients shall not exceed 48 hours unless the treating physician, dentist, or podiatrist requests an extension of time from the Postsurgical Recovery Care Center Model's Medical Director on the basis of medical or clinical documentation that an additional care period is required for the recovery of a patient and the Medical Director approves the extension of time. (Section 35 of the Act)

b)         No patient shall stay in the Postsurgical Recovery Care Center Model longer than 72 hours.  If a patient requires an additional care period, the patient shall be transferred to an appropriate facility. (Section 35 of the Act)

c)         Reports on variances from the 48 hour limit shall be sent to the Department for evaluation within 30 days after the patient's discharge. (Section 35 of the Act)  The report shall not identify the patient or physician but shall detail the following:

1)         patient diagnosis and the surgical procedure performed;

2)         the reason(s) for the extended stay;

3)         actual length of stay;

4)         documentation of the Medical Director's approval;

5)         documentation of consulting committee review of the case and the results of the review.