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HomeCommentaryOp-edOp-ed: Christensen Supports Veto of Certificate of Need Bill

Op-ed: Christensen Supports Veto of Certificate of Need Bill

Donna M. Christensen, MD

I don’t often agree with actions taken by Governor Mapp, but I support his veto of Bill 32-0245, waiving a Certificate of Need for non-hospital care facilities, operating as stand-alone facilities.

Certificate of Need (C.O.N.) programs are aimed at restraining health care facility costs and facilitating coordinated planning of new services and facility construction. I am aware that some states have repealed their C.O.N.’s. One that did, has since reinstated it. Some have limited the scope and others have expanded it. Some are governed by independent councils. At least 35 states continue the process.

While they have not proven to reduce healthcare costs, I believe that the coordinated planning function is important and needed here.

I am aware that the process in the Virgin Islands has been flawed in some instances, but I don’t believe in repeal or in waiving it for a full class of facilities. However, it does need to be restructured to ensure that there are clear criteria and that the process is objective and fair. Additionally, there should be a process for reconsideration or to grieve a decision.

In no way is my position one in opposition to the upcoming Liberty Medical Development LLC, which I support. I take it because I believe that when a CON is developed and administered well, without personal or special interest influence, the coordination of health care services it provides serves the community best.

Editor’s note: Donna M. Christensen, MD is a former commissioner of health and delegate to Congress.

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