(1) A completed license application form must be submitted to the department.

(a) The application must be obtained from the department.

(b) The administrator or designee of the health care facility must sign the completed license application form.

(2) On receipt of a new or renewal license application, the department or its authorized agent will inspect the health care facility to determine if the facility meets the minimum regulatory standards set forth in this subchapter and other rules specific to the facility type as applicable.

(3) If minimum regulatory standards are met and the proposed staff is qualified, the department may issue a license for periods of up to three years.

(a) A three-year license may be offered to any facility:

(i) that has received a deficiency-free survey;

(ii) that has been granted accreditation by an accreditation entity approved by the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services; or

(iii) that has received a survey from another recognized department entity and the results of that survey determine that the facility meets the minimum requirements for issuance of a license.

(b) The facility must submit or make available to the department the full accreditation entity or department inspection report.

(c) A two-year license may be offered to any facility:

(i) that has received minor deficiencies, but those deficiencies do not significantly affect or threaten the health, safety, and welfare of any facility patient or resident.

(d) A one-year license may be offered to any facility:

(i) that has been in operation for less than one year;

(ii) upon a change in ownership; or

(iii) that has received deficiencies within the preceding 12 months that threaten the health, safety, and welfare of residents or staff.

(4) Licensed premises must be open to inspection by the department or its authorized agent and access to all records must be granted to the department at all reasonable times.