O.C.G.A. § 31-10-5 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-10-5
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-10-5
Status: in_force

(a) The state registrar shall: (1) Administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter and the rules and regulations issued under this chapter and issue instructions for the efficient administration of the State Office of Vital Records; (2) Direct and supervise the State Office of Vital Records and be custodian of its records; (3) Direct, supervise, and control the activities of all persons when they are engaged in activities pertaining to the operation of the State Office of Vital Records; (4) Conduct training programs to promote uniformity of policy and procedures throughout the state in matters pertaining to the State Office of Vital Records; (5) Prescribe, furnish, and distribute such forms as are required by this chapter and the rules and regulations issued under this chapter or prescribe such other means for transmission of data as will accomplish the purpose of complete and accurate reporting and registration; (6) Prepare and publish in print or electronically reports of vital statistics of this state and such other reports as may be required by the department; and (7) Provide to local health agencies copies of or data derived from certificates and reports required under this chapter, as the state registrar shall determine are necessary for local health planning and program activities. The state registrar shall establish a schedule with each local health agency for transmittal of the copies or data. The copies or data shall remain the property of the department, and the uses which may be made of them shall be governed by the state registrar.

(a) The state registrar shall:

(1) Administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter and the rules and regulations issued under this chapter and issue instructions for the efficient administration of the State Office of Vital Records;

(1) Administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter and the rules and regulations issued under this chapter and issue instructions for the efficient administration of the State Office of Vital Records;

(2) Direct and supervise the State Office of Vital Records and be custodian of its records;

(2) Direct and supervise the State Office of Vital Records and be custodian of its records;

(3) Direct, supervise, and control the activities of all persons when they are engaged in activities pertaining to the operation of the State Office of Vital Records;

(3) Direct, supervise, and control the activities of all persons when they are engaged in activities pertaining to the operation of the State Office of Vital Records;

(4) Conduct training programs to promote uniformity of policy and procedures throughout the state in matters pertaining to the State Office of Vital Records;

(4) Conduct training programs to promote uniformity of policy and procedures throughout the state in matters pertaining to the State Office of Vital Records;

(5) Prescribe, furnish, and distribute such forms as are required by this chapter and the rules and regulations issued under this chapter or prescribe such other means for transmission of data as will accomplish the purpose of complete and accurate reporting and registration;

(5) Prescribe, furnish, and distribute such forms as are required by this chapter and the rules and regulations issued under this chapter or prescribe such other means for transmission of data as will accomplish the purpose of complete and accurate reporting and registration;

(6) Prepare and publish in print or electronically reports of vital statistics of this state and such other reports as may be required by the department; and

(6) Prepare and publish in print or electronically reports of vital statistics of this state and such other reports as may be required by the department; and

(7) Provide to local health agencies copies of or data derived from certificates and reports required under this chapter, as the state registrar shall determine are necessary for local health planning and program activities. The state registrar shall establish a schedule with each local health agency for transmittal of the copies or data. The copies or data shall remain the property of the department, and the uses which may be made of them shall be governed by the state registrar.

(7) Provide to local health agencies copies of or data derived from certificates and reports required under this chapter, as the state registrar shall determine are necessary for local health planning and program activities. The state registrar shall establish a schedule with each local health agency for transmittal of the copies or data. The copies or data shall remain the property of the department, and the uses which may be made of them shall be governed by the state registrar.

(b) The state registrar may establish or designate offices in the state to aid in the efficient administration of the State Office of Vital Records.

(b) The state registrar may establish or designate offices in the state to aid in the efficient administration of the State Office of Vital Records.

(c) The state registrar may delegate such functions and duties vested in the state registrar to employees of the State Office of Vital Records and to employees of any office established or designated under subsection (b) of this Code section.

(c) The state registrar may delegate such functions and duties vested in the state registrar to employees of the State Office of Vital Records and to employees of any office established or designated under subsection (b) of this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-11 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-11
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-11
Status: in_force

This chapter shall not apply to the following:

(1) An ambulance or ambulance service operated by an agency of the United States government;

(1) An ambulance or ambulance service operated by an agency of the United States government;

(2) A vehicle or aircraft that is operated by a person who is not licensed to furnish ambulance service which is rendering assistance temporarily in the case of a major catastrophe or emergency because the licensed ambulance services of the state are insufficient or unable to meet the demands thereof;

(2) A vehicle or aircraft that is operated by a person who is not licensed to furnish ambulance service which is rendering assistance temporarily in the case of a major catastrophe or emergency because the licensed ambulance services of the state are insufficient or unable to meet the demands thereof;

(3) An ambulance which is operated from a location outside of the state in order to transport patients from without the state's limits to locations within the state; or

(3) An ambulance which is operated from a location outside of the state in order to transport patients from without the state's limits to locations within the state; or

(4) An invalid car or the operator thereof, except as provided in subsection (b) of Code Section 31-11-30 .

(4) An invalid car or the operator thereof, except as provided in subsection (b) of Code Section 31-11-30 .
O.C.G.A. § 31-2-2 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-2-2
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-2-2
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “ Board ” means the Board of Community Health established under Code Section 31-2-3 .

(1) “ Board ” means the Board of Community Health established under Code Section 31-2-3 .

(2) “ Commissioner ” means the commissioner of community health established under Code Section 31-2-6 .

(2) “ Commissioner ” means the commissioner of community health established under Code Section 31-2-6 .

(3) “ Department ” means the Department of Community Health established under Code Section 31-2-4 .

(3) “ Department ” means the Department of Community Health established under Code Section 31-2-4 .

(4) “ Predecessor agency or unit ” means the Department of Community Health, the Division of Public Health of the Department of Human Resources, and the Office of Regulatory Services of the Department of Human Resources.

(4) “ Predecessor agency or unit ” means the Department of Community Health, the Division of Public Health of the Department of Human Resources, and the Office of Regulatory Services of the Department of Human Resources.

(5) “ State health benefit plan ” means the health insurance plan authorized under Article 1 of Chapter 18 of Title 45 and Part 6 of Article 17 of Chapter 2 of Title 20.

(5) “ State health benefit plan ” means the health insurance plan authorized under Article 1 of Chapter 18 of Title 45 and Part 6 of Article 17 of Chapter 2 of Title 20.

(6) “ State Personnel Board ” means the board established under Article IV, Section III of the Constitution .

(6) “ State Personnel Board ” means the board established under Article IV, Section III of the Constitution .
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-382 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-382
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-382
Status: in_force

The department may establish and maintain a central caregiver registry which shall be accessible to employers as a data base operated by the department that contains information on eligible and ineligible applicants and employees as determined by the department from criminal background checks and registry checks conducted on behalf of facilities as provided in Article 14 of this chapter and criminal background checks and registry checks conducted on behalf of employers as provided in this article. If the department is participating in the program described in subparagraph (a)(1)(F) of Code Section 35-3-33 , the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall be authorized to retain fingerprints obtained pursuant to this Code section for such program and the department shall notify the individual whose fingerprints were taken of the parameters of such retention.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-33 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-33
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-33
Status: in_force

(a) Every ambulance operated on the streets, highways, and private access roads of this state by persons engaged in providing ambulance service shall have insurance coverage issued by an insurance company licensed to do business in this state providing at least the minimum coverage required for motor vehicles under Chapter 34 of Title 33; provided, however, in the case of ambulances operated by the state, the coverage required shall be the same coverage required for other state vehicles under Chapter 9 of Title 45. Every air ambulance operated by persons engaged in providing air ambulance service in this state shall have insurance coverage as described in Code Section 33-7-9 .

(a) Every ambulance operated on the streets, highways, and private access roads of this state by persons engaged in providing ambulance service shall have insurance coverage issued by an insurance company licensed to do business in this state providing at least the minimum coverage required for motor vehicles under Chapter 34 of Title 33; provided, however, in the case of ambulances operated by the state, the coverage required shall be the same coverage required for other state vehicles under Chapter 9 of Title 45. Every air ambulance operated by persons engaged in providing air ambulance service in this state shall have insurance coverage as described in Code Section 33-7-9 .

(b) No ambulance shall be licensed nor shall any license be renewed unless the ambulance has insurance coverage in force as required by this Code section. A certificate of insurance shall be submitted to the license officer for approval prior to the issuance or renewal of each ambulance license. Satisfactory evidence that such insurance is at all times in force and effect shall be furnished to the license officer, in such form as he may specify, by all licensees required to provide such insurance under this Code section.

(b) No ambulance shall be licensed nor shall any license be renewed unless the ambulance has insurance coverage in force as required by this Code section. A certificate of insurance shall be submitted to the license officer for approval prior to the issuance or renewal of each ambulance license. Satisfactory evidence that such insurance is at all times in force and effect shall be furnished to the license officer, in such form as he may specify, by all licensees required to provide such insurance under this Code section.

(c) This Code section shall apply to all ambulances, whether privately operated or operated by any political subdivision of the state or any municipality.

(c) This Code section shall apply to all ambulances, whether privately operated or operated by any political subdivision of the state or any municipality.

(d) This Code section shall not apply to first responders, which do not transport patients, operated by municipalities or counties that have not elected to waive their governmental immunity by purchasing vehicle liability insurance pursuant to Code Section 33-24-51 .

(d) This Code section shall not apply to first responders, which do not transport patients, operated by municipalities or counties that have not elected to waive their governmental immunity by purchasing vehicle liability insurance pursuant to Code Section 33-24-51 .
O.C.G.A. § 31-1-6 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-1-6
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-1-6
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “Heart pacemaker” means any electrical device which stimulates the heart muscle so that it contracts at a certain or regular rate. (2) “Medically acceptable” means conforming to prevailing medical standards of cleanliness and manufacturers' applicable standards for functional operation. (3) “Person” includes the following: (A) Any hospital, surgeon, or physician; (B) Any accredited medical school, college, or university; (C) Any licensed, accredited, or approved bank or storage facility of human bodies or parts; or (D) Any specified individual needing implantation of a heart pacemaker.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “Heart pacemaker” means any electrical device which stimulates the heart muscle so that it contracts at a certain or regular rate.

(1) “Heart pacemaker” means any electrical device which stimulates the heart muscle so that it contracts at a certain or regular rate.

(2) “Medically acceptable” means conforming to prevailing medical standards of cleanliness and manufacturers' applicable standards for functional operation.

(2) “Medically acceptable” means conforming to prevailing medical standards of cleanliness and manufacturers' applicable standards for functional operation.

(3) “Person” includes the following: (A) Any hospital, surgeon, or physician; (B) Any accredited medical school, college, or university; (C) Any licensed, accredited, or approved bank or storage facility of human bodies or parts; or (D) Any specified individual needing implantation of a heart pacemaker.

(3) “Person” includes the following:

(A) Any hospital, surgeon, or physician;

(A) Any hospital, surgeon, or physician;

(B) Any accredited medical school, college, or university;

(B) Any accredited medical school, college, or university;

(C) Any licensed, accredited, or approved bank or storage facility of human bodies or parts; or

(C) Any licensed, accredited, or approved bank or storage facility of human bodies or parts; or

(D) Any specified individual needing implantation of a heart pacemaker.

(D) Any specified individual needing implantation of a heart pacemaker.

(b) Any person, as defined in subsection (a) of this Code section, shall be authorized to receive and reuse a heart pacemaker, provided that such device is medically acceptable for its proposed reuse.

(b) Any person, as defined in subsection (a) of this Code section, shall be authorized to receive and reuse a heart pacemaker, provided that such device is medically acceptable for its proposed reuse.

(c) This Code section shall not apply to the receipt and reuse of a nuclear-powered pacemaker.

(c) This Code section shall not apply to the receipt and reuse of a nuclear-powered pacemaker.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-130 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-130
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-130
Status: in_force

This article shall be known and may be cited as the “Remedies for Residents of Personal Care Homes Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-21-45 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-21-45
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-21-45
Status: in_force

(a) After December 1, 1992, it shall be unlawful to exhibit or display to the public dead human bodies of American Indians or American Indian human remains except in connection with: (1) Funeral or burial services; (2) Education or instruction as part of a course of study at an accredited university, college, or school; or (3) Educational exhibits or displays as may be allowed only with the express written permission of the lineal descendants of the deceased where such descendants can be identified or by the agent of the deceased's estate or, where there is no lineal descendant or agent of the deceased's estate, by the Council on American Indian Concerns created by Code Section 44-12-280 .

(a) After December 1, 1992, it shall be unlawful to exhibit or display to the public dead human bodies of American Indians or American Indian human remains except in connection with:

(1) Funeral or burial services;

(1) Funeral or burial services;

(2) Education or instruction as part of a course of study at an accredited university, college, or school; or

(2) Education or instruction as part of a course of study at an accredited university, college, or school; or

(3) Educational exhibits or displays as may be allowed only with the express written permission of the lineal descendants of the deceased where such descendants can be identified or by the agent of the deceased's estate or, where there is no lineal descendant or agent of the deceased's estate, by the Council on American Indian Concerns created by Code Section 44-12-280 .

(3) Educational exhibits or displays as may be allowed only with the express written permission of the lineal descendants of the deceased where such descendants can be identified or by the agent of the deceased's estate or, where there is no lineal descendant or agent of the deceased's estate, by the Council on American Indian Concerns created by Code Section 44-12-280 .

(b) Any person who violates this Code section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than two years.

(b) Any person who violates this Code section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than two years.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-4 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-4
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-4
Status: in_force

In order for a county to qualify for assistance under the program, the governing authority of said county shall have certified that:

(1) The county elects to participate in the program;

(1) The county elects to participate in the program;

(2) A local budget providing the funds required by the graduated matching formula has been approved;

(2) A local budget providing the funds required by the graduated matching formula has been approved;

(3) A local administrative agency or officer has been appointed; and

(3) A local administrative agency or officer has been appointed; and

(4) A screening committee or agency has been appointed to make determinations and certifications relative to indigency of persons applying for assistance as provided for in this article.

(4) A screening committee or agency has been appointed to make determinations and certifications relative to indigency of persons applying for assistance as provided for in this article.
O.C.G.A. § 31-40-9 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 40 / Section 31-40-9
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-40-9
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the governing authority of any county or municipality may enact more stringent laws governing body art.
O.C.G.A. § 31-10-16 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-10-16
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-10-16
Status: in_force

(a) A person may be pronounced dead by a qualified physician, by a registered professional nurse or nurse practitioner authorized to make a pronouncement of death under Code Section 31-7-16 or 31-7-176.1 , by an advanced practice registered nurse authorized to make a pronouncement of death under subsection (o) of Code Section 43-34-25 , or by a physician assistant authorized to make a pronouncement of death under Code Section 31-7-16 or 31-7-176.1 or subsection (j) of Code Section 43-34-103 , if it is determined that the individual has sustained either (1) irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory function or (2) irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brain stem.

(a) A person may be pronounced dead by a qualified physician, by a registered professional nurse or nurse practitioner authorized to make a pronouncement of death under Code Section 31-7-16 or 31-7-176.1 , by an advanced practice registered nurse authorized to make a pronouncement of death under subsection (o) of Code Section 43-34-25 , or by a physician assistant authorized to make a pronouncement of death under Code Section 31-7-16 or 31-7-176.1 or subsection (j) of Code Section 43-34-103 , if it is determined that the individual has sustained either (1) irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory function or (2) irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brain stem.

(b) A person who acts in good faith in accordance with the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section shall not be liable for damages in any civil action or subject to prosecution in any criminal proceeding for such act.

(b) A person who acts in good faith in accordance with the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section shall not be liable for damages in any civil action or subject to prosecution in any criminal proceeding for such act.

(c) The criteria for determining death authorized in subsection (a) of this Code section shall be cumulative to and shall not prohibit the use of other medically recognized criteria for determining death.

(c) The criteria for determining death authorized in subsection (a) of this Code section shall be cumulative to and shall not prohibit the use of other medically recognized criteria for determining death.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-193 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-193
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-193
Status: in_force

(a) There is established a state-wide Palliative Care Consumer and Professional Information and Education Program within the department.

(a) There is established a state-wide Palliative Care Consumer and Professional Information and Education Program within the department.

(b) The purpose of the Palliative Care Consumer and Professional Information and Education Program shall be to maximize the effectiveness of palliative care initiatives in this state by ensuring that comprehensive and accurate information and education about palliative care is available to the public, health care providers, and health care facilities.

(b) The purpose of the Palliative Care Consumer and Professional Information and Education Program shall be to maximize the effectiveness of palliative care initiatives in this state by ensuring that comprehensive and accurate information and education about palliative care is available to the public, health care providers, and health care facilities.

(c) The department shall publish on its website information and resources, including links to external resources, about palliative care for the public, health care providers, and health care facilities. This shall include, but not be limited to, continuing educational opportunities for health care providers; information about palliative care delivery in the home, primary, secondary, and tertiary environments; best practices for palliative care delivery; and consumer educational materials and referral information for palliative care, including hospice.

(c) The department shall publish on its website information and resources, including links to external resources, about palliative care for the public, health care providers, and health care facilities. This shall include, but not be limited to, continuing educational opportunities for health care providers; information about palliative care delivery in the home, primary, secondary, and tertiary environments; best practices for palliative care delivery; and consumer educational materials and referral information for palliative care, including hospice.

(d) The department shall consult with the Georgia Palliative Care and Quality of Life Advisory Council in implementing this Code section.

(d) The department shall consult with the Georgia Palliative Care and Quality of Life Advisory Council in implementing this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 31-38-9 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 38 / Section 31-38-9
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-38-9
Status: in_force

Any person who leases tanning equipment or who owns a tanning facility as defined by this chapter who operates or permits to be operated that equipment or facility in noncompliance with the requirements of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 31-26-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-26-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-26-1
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “Midwife” means any person not licensed under the laws of this state to practice obstetrics who is regularly engaged in attending women in childbirth or who holds himself or herself out as such, whether or not for consideration.

(1) “Midwife” means any person not licensed under the laws of this state to practice obstetrics who is regularly engaged in attending women in childbirth or who holds himself or herself out as such, whether or not for consideration.

(2) “Normal childbirth” means delivery, at or close to term, of a pregnant woman whose physical examination by a physician reveals no abnormalities and who does not have signs or symptoms of hemorrhage, toxemia, infection, abnormal position or presentation, or prolonged labor.

(2) “Normal childbirth” means delivery, at or close to term, of a pregnant woman whose physical examination by a physician reveals no abnormalities and who does not have signs or symptoms of hemorrhage, toxemia, infection, abnormal position or presentation, or prolonged labor.

(3) “Practice of midwifery” means and includes any act or practice of attending women in childbirth when engaged in by a midwife, whether or not for consideration.

(3) “Practice of midwifery” means and includes any act or practice of attending women in childbirth when engaged in by a midwife, whether or not for consideration.
O.C.G.A. § 31-26-2 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-26-2
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-26-2
Status: in_force

(a) No person shall practice midwifery without first receiving from the Department of Public Health a certificate of authority as provided in this Code section and registering his or her name, address, and occupation with the county board of health and the local registrar, as defined in Code Section 31-10-2 , of vital statistics in the county and district in which he or she lives.

(a) No person shall practice midwifery without first receiving from the Department of Public Health a certificate of authority as provided in this Code section and registering his or her name, address, and occupation with the county board of health and the local registrar, as defined in Code Section 31-10-2 , of vital statistics in the county and district in which he or she lives.

(b) Persons desiring to enter into or continue the practice of midwifery shall make written application to the department through the county board of health in the county of their residence. All applicants for permits to practice midwifery shall be of good character and sound mind, shall be free of tuberculosis, sexually transmitted diseases, and other communicable diseases in the infectious stage, and shall be protected against smallpox.

(b) Persons desiring to enter into or continue the practice of midwifery shall make written application to the department through the county board of health in the county of their residence. All applicants for permits to practice midwifery shall be of good character and sound mind, shall be free of tuberculosis, sexually transmitted diseases, and other communicable diseases in the infectious stage, and shall be protected against smallpox.

(c) In order to become eligible for a certificate of authority to practice midwifery, applicants shall attend classes and satisfactorily complete courses of instruction therein to be prescribed by the department and shall pass an examination covering such courses. Such applicants shall also pass such physical examinations or, in the alternative, provide such evidence with regard to their personal health as the department may require.

(c) In order to become eligible for a certificate of authority to practice midwifery, applicants shall attend classes and satisfactorily complete courses of instruction therein to be prescribed by the department and shall pass an examination covering such courses. Such applicants shall also pass such physical examinations or, in the alternative, provide such evidence with regard to their personal health as the department may require.

(d) The department or any county board of health designated by the department shall issue, or refuse to issue, or, having issued, may suspend or revoke certificates of authority to practice midwifery under and in accordance with this chapter and such rules and regulations as may be issued and promulgated under this chapter. Certificates issued under this chapter shall be renewable annually at such time and in such manner as prescribed by the department. Suspension and revocation of certificates shall be subject to the administrative procedures contained in Article 1 of Chapter 5 of this title.

(d) The department or any county board of health designated by the department shall issue, or refuse to issue, or, having issued, may suspend or revoke certificates of authority to practice midwifery under and in accordance with this chapter and such rules and regulations as may be issued and promulgated under this chapter. Certificates issued under this chapter shall be renewable annually at such time and in such manner as prescribed by the department. Suspension and revocation of certificates shall be subject to the administrative procedures contained in Article 1 of Chapter 5 of this title.
O.C.G.A. § 31-10-9-2 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-10-9-2
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-10-9.2
Status: in_force

(a) The state registrar shall provide to the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services copies of or data derived from certificates and reports filed with the state registrar upon notification by the Division of Family and Children Services of receipt of a report of abuse or neglect concerning a child or his or her parents or siblings pursuant to Code Section 19-7-5 . Such reports or data shall include records related to birth or death, fetal death, and putative father registry of this state concerning a child or his or her parents or siblings.

(a) The state registrar shall provide to the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services copies of or data derived from certificates and reports filed with the state registrar upon notification by the Division of Family and Children Services of receipt of a report of abuse or neglect concerning a child or his or her parents or siblings pursuant to Code Section 19-7-5 . Such reports or data shall include records related to birth or death, fetal death, and putative father registry of this state concerning a child or his or her parents or siblings.

(b) The Department of Public Health, through the state registrar and the Division of Family and Children Services, shall jointly establish policies, procedures, and schedules regarding the transmittal of copies of records or data as jointly deemed necessary. The Department of Public Health and the Division of Family and Children Services shall enter into agreements as necessary to effectuate the provisions of this Code section and to ensure compliance with the requirements of the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, P.L. 104-191 , as amended.

(b) The Department of Public Health, through the state registrar and the Division of Family and Children Services, shall jointly establish policies, procedures, and schedules regarding the transmittal of copies of records or data as jointly deemed necessary. The Department of Public Health and the Division of Family and Children Services shall enter into agreements as necessary to effectuate the provisions of this Code section and to ensure compliance with the requirements of the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, P.L. 104-191 , as amended.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-170 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-170
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-170
Status: in_force

This article shall be known and may be cited as the “Georgia Hospice Law.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-2-14 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-2-14
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-2-14
Status: in_force

(a) The nurse aide registry established and maintained by the department as required by 42 C.F.R. Section 483.156 shall include, in addition to nurse aides who work in licensed facilities, nurse aides who provide services in this state in temporary or permanent private residences.

(a) The nurse aide registry established and maintained by the department as required by 42 C.F.R. Section 483.156 shall include, in addition to nurse aides who work in licensed facilities, nurse aides who provide services in this state in temporary or permanent private residences.

(b) The registry shall provide a method for an inquiry or complaint to be submitted by the public regarding a nurse aide providing services in private residences. Any such inquiries or complaints shall be handled in the same manner as required for nurse aides who work in licensed facilities.

(b) The registry shall provide a method for an inquiry or complaint to be submitted by the public regarding a nurse aide providing services in private residences. Any such inquiries or complaints shall be handled in the same manner as required for nurse aides who work in licensed facilities.

(c) The department shall ensure that the registry is posted or a link to it is provided in a prominent location on the department's website.

(c) The department shall ensure that the registry is posted or a link to it is provided in a prominent location on the department's website.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-88 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-88
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-88
Status: in_force

The department shall prepare a written notice describing the reporting requirements set forth in this article. Such notice shall be distributed to all long-term care facilities and hospitals in the state and copies thereof shall be posted in conspicuous locations within facilities and hospitals.
O.C.G.A. § 31-19-2 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-19-2
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-19-2
Status: in_force

The department may declare any county or any area therein or any group of counties or areas therein where rabies exists to be an infected area and may provide for immunization and such other measures as shall be indicated for the prevention and control of the disease.
O.C.G.A. § 31-10-30 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-10-30
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-10-30
Status: in_force

(a) To protect the integrity of vital records and to prevent the fraudulent use of birth certificates of deceased persons, the state registrar is authorized to match birth and death certificates, in accordance with written standards promulgated by the state registrar to prove beyond a reasonable doubt the fact of death and to post the facts of death to the appropriate birth certificate and index. Copies issued from birth certificates marked deceased shall be similarly marked.

(a) To protect the integrity of vital records and to prevent the fraudulent use of birth certificates of deceased persons, the state registrar is authorized to match birth and death certificates, in accordance with written standards promulgated by the state registrar to prove beyond a reasonable doubt the fact of death and to post the facts of death to the appropriate birth certificate and index. Copies issued from birth certificates marked deceased shall be similarly marked.

(b) When a death occurs in this state for which a death certificate must be filed in accordance with Code Section 31-10-15 , and the decedent's birth certificate is on file at the State Office of Vital Records, the state registrar shall mark that deceased person's birth certificate with the word “Deceased.” The state registrar shall notify the custodian of vital records of the county where the decedent was born that the deceased individual's birth certificate has been marked “Deceased.”

(b) When a death occurs in this state for which a death certificate must be filed in accordance with Code Section 31-10-15 , and the decedent's birth certificate is on file at the State Office of Vital Records, the state registrar shall mark that deceased person's birth certificate with the word “Deceased.” The state registrar shall notify the custodian of vital records of the county where the decedent was born that the deceased individual's birth certificate has been marked “Deceased.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-9a-2 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 9A / Section 31-9a-2
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-9A-2
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “ Abortion ” means the use or prescription of any instrument, medicine, drug, or any other substance or device with the intent to terminate the pregnancy of a female known to be pregnant. The term “abortion” shall not include the use or prescription of any instrument, medicine, drug, or any other substance or device employed solely to increase the probability of a live birth, to preserve the life or health of the child after live birth, or to remove a dead unborn child who died as the result of a spontaneous abortion. The term “abortion” also shall not include the prescription or use of contraceptives.

(1) “ Abortion ” means the use or prescription of any instrument, medicine, drug, or any other substance or device with the intent to terminate the pregnancy of a female known to be pregnant. The term “abortion” shall not include the use or prescription of any instrument, medicine, drug, or any other substance or device employed solely to increase the probability of a live birth, to preserve the life or health of the child after live birth, or to remove a dead unborn child who died as the result of a spontaneous abortion. The term “abortion” also shall not include the prescription or use of contraceptives.

(2) “ Medical emergency ” means any condition which, in reasonable medical judgment, so complicates the medical condition of a pregnant female as to necessitate the immediate abortion of her pregnancy to avert her death or for which a delay will create serious risk of substantial or irreversible impairment of a major bodily function of the pregnant woman or death of the unborn child. No such condition shall be deemed to exist if it is based on a diagnosis or claim of a mental or emotional condition of the pregnant woman or that the pregnant woman will purposefully engage in conduct which she intends to result in her death or in substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.

(2) “ Medical emergency ” means any condition which, in reasonable medical judgment, so complicates the medical condition of a pregnant female as to necessitate the immediate abortion of her pregnancy to avert her death or for which a delay will create serious risk of substantial or irreversible impairment of a major bodily function of the pregnant woman or death of the unborn child. No such condition shall be deemed to exist if it is based on a diagnosis or claim of a mental or emotional condition of the pregnant woman or that the pregnant woman will purposefully engage in conduct which she intends to result in her death or in substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.

(3) “ Physician ” means a person licensed to practice medicine under Article 2 of Chapter 34 of Title 43.

(3) “ Physician ” means a person licensed to practice medicine under Article 2 of Chapter 34 of Title 43.

(4) “ Probable gestational age of the unborn child ” means the physician's best professional estimate of the probable gestational age of the unborn child at the time an abortion is to be performed.

(4) “ Probable gestational age of the unborn child ” means the physician's best professional estimate of the probable gestational age of the unborn child at the time an abortion is to be performed.

(5) “ Qualified agent ” means the agent of the physician who is a patient educator, licensed psychologist, licensed social worker, licensed professional counselor, licensed physician assistant, registered nurse, or physician.

(5) “ Qualified agent ” means the agent of the physician who is a patient educator, licensed psychologist, licensed social worker, licensed professional counselor, licensed physician assistant, registered nurse, or physician.

(6) “ Secure Internet website ” means a website that is safeguarded from having its content altered other than by the commissioner of public health.

(6) “ Secure Internet website ” means a website that is safeguarded from having its content altered other than by the commissioner of public health.

(7) “ Unborn child ” or “ fetus ” means a member of the species homo sapiens from fertilization until birth.

(7) “ Unborn child ” or “ fetus ” means a member of the species homo sapiens from fertilization until birth.
O.C.G.A. § 31-2a-56 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 2A / Section 31-2a-56
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-2A-56
Status: in_force

No person or facility may advertise to the public, by way of any medium whatsoever, that it is a designated facility or has achieved a particular level of maternal or neonatal care according to the criteria established pursuant to this article, unless it has been designated as such by the department.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-131 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-131
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-131
Status: in_force

As used in this article, the term:

(1) “ Emergency cardiac care center ” means a hospital that has been designated by the office pursuant to this article as meeting the criteria set forth in this article.

(1) “ Emergency cardiac care center ” means a hospital that has been designated by the office pursuant to this article as meeting the criteria set forth in this article.

(2) “ Office ” means the Office of Cardiac Care established pursuant to this article.

(2) “ Office ” means the Office of Cardiac Care established pursuant to this article.
O.C.G.A. § 31-3-12 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-3-12
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-3-12
Status: in_force

Subject to the policies and directives of the county board of health and the policies and directives of the multiple county districts served, the director shall perform the functions and exercise the powers set forth in this chapter except the power to adopt bylaws and to adopt rules and regulations and may delegate the powers and authority conferred, or any part thereof, to one or more individuals as he may deem appropriate. The director shall devote his entire time to the service of the county board of health and to the multiple county districts, where created, and shall be vigilant in procuring compliance with its rules and regulations and with Georgia health laws and rules and regulations adopted thereunder that have application within the county and district. He shall make reports to the county board of health and the agency in charge of the multiple county district in such manner and form and with such frequency as required by it and shall also report to the department in such manner, detail, and form as the department may specify.
O.C.G.A. § 31-3-14 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-3-14
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-3-14
Status: in_force

The county board of health, at a regular or called meeting, at a time appropriate to the fiscal operation of the county, shall determine and fix the amount of money needed for the fiscal or calendar year, as the case may be, in accordance with a budget itemizing anticipated income and expenditure; the budget shall include any unobligated moneys carried over from the current period and funds to be made available from sources other than county taxes. The expenditures anticipated, after applying credits, shall be certified by the county board of health, with a copy of the budget, to the taxing authority of the county, which may fix and levy a tax rate sufficient to raise such amount at the same time and in the same manner prescribed for levying taxes for other county purposes, provided the taxing authority of the county deems the budget reasonable. If, however, the taxing authority of the county should deem the budget unreasonable, it shall promptly return the budget to the county board of health with its objections attached thereto for the purpose of resubmission.
O.C.G.A. § 31-17-4-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-17-4-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-17-4.1
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “Chlamydia screening test” means any laboratory test of the urogenital tract which specifically detects for infection by one or more agents of chlamydia trachomatis and which test is approved for such purposes by the federal Food and Drug Administration. (2) “Policy” means any benefit plan, contract, or policy except a disability income policy, specified disease policy, or hospital indemnity policy.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “Chlamydia screening test” means any laboratory test of the urogenital tract which specifically detects for infection by one or more agents of chlamydia trachomatis and which test is approved for such purposes by the federal Food and Drug Administration.

(1) “Chlamydia screening test” means any laboratory test of the urogenital tract which specifically detects for infection by one or more agents of chlamydia trachomatis and which test is approved for such purposes by the federal Food and Drug Administration.

(2) “Policy” means any benefit plan, contract, or policy except a disability income policy, specified disease policy, or hospital indemnity policy.

(2) “Policy” means any benefit plan, contract, or policy except a disability income policy, specified disease policy, or hospital indemnity policy.

(b)(1) Every insurer authorized to issue an individual or group accident and sickness insurance policy in this state which includes coverage for any female shall include as part of or as a required endorsement to each such policy which is issued, delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after July 1, 1998, coverage for one annual chlamydia screening test for those covered females who are not more than 29 years old. (2) The coverage required under paragraph (1) of this subsection may be subject to such exclusions, reductions, or other limitations as to coverages, deductibles, or coinsurance provisions as may be approved by the Commissioner of Insurance. (3) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prohibit the issuance of accident and sickness insurance policies which provide benefits greater than or more favorable to the insured than those required by paragraph (1) of this subsection. (4) The provisions of this subsection shall apply to accident and sickness insurance policies issued by a fraternal benefit society, a health care plan, a health maintenance organization, or any similar entity. (5) Nothing contained in this Code section shall be deemed to prohibit the payment of different levels of benefits or having differences in coinsurance percentages applicable to benefit levels for services provided by preferred and nonpreferred providers as otherwise authorized under the provisions of Article 2 of Chapter 30 of Title 33, relating to preferred provider arrangements.

(b)(1) Every insurer authorized to issue an individual or group accident and sickness insurance policy in this state which includes coverage for any female shall include as part of or as a required endorsement to each such policy which is issued, delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after July 1, 1998, coverage for one annual chlamydia screening test for those covered females who are not more than 29 years old.

(b)(1) Every insurer authorized to issue an individual or group accident and sickness insurance policy in this state which includes coverage for any female shall include as part of or as a required endorsement to each such policy which is issued, delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after July 1, 1998, coverage for one annual chlamydia screening test for those covered females who are not more than 29 years old.

(2) The coverage required under paragraph (1) of this subsection may be subject to such exclusions, reductions, or other limitations as to coverages, deductibles, or coinsurance provisions as may be approved by the Commissioner of Insurance.

(2) The coverage required under paragraph (1) of this subsection may be subject to such exclusions, reductions, or other limitations as to coverages, deductibles, or coinsurance provisions as may be approved by the Commissioner of Insurance.

(3) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prohibit the issuance of accident and sickness insurance policies which provide benefits greater than or more favorable to the insured than those required by paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(3) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prohibit the issuance of accident and sickness insurance policies which provide benefits greater than or more favorable to the insured than those required by paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(4) The provisions of this subsection shall apply to accident and sickness insurance policies issued by a fraternal benefit society, a health care plan, a health maintenance organization, or any similar entity.

(4) The provisions of this subsection shall apply to accident and sickness insurance policies issued by a fraternal benefit society, a health care plan, a health maintenance organization, or any similar entity.

(5) Nothing contained in this Code section shall be deemed to prohibit the payment of different levels of benefits or having differences in coinsurance percentages applicable to benefit levels for services provided by preferred and nonpreferred providers as otherwise authorized under the provisions of Article 2 of Chapter 30 of Title 33, relating to preferred provider arrangements.

(5) Nothing contained in this Code section shall be deemed to prohibit the payment of different levels of benefits or having differences in coinsurance percentages applicable to benefit levels for services provided by preferred and nonpreferred providers as otherwise authorized under the provisions of Article 2 of Chapter 30 of Title 33, relating to preferred provider arrangements.

(c)(1) A contract executed or renewed on or after July 1, 1998, which provides for financing and delivery of health care services through a managed care plan, other than a dental plan, shall provide coverage for one annual chlamydia screening test for each female who is covered under such contract and who is not more than 29 years of age. Such coverage may be subject to such exclusions, reductions, or other limitations as to coverages, deductibles, or copayment provisions as may be approved by the Commissioner of Insurance. (2) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prohibit any managed care plan contract from providing benefits greater than or more favorable to the covered females than those required by paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(c)(1) A contract executed or renewed on or after July 1, 1998, which provides for financing and delivery of health care services through a managed care plan, other than a dental plan, shall provide coverage for one annual chlamydia screening test for each female who is covered under such contract and who is not more than 29 years of age. Such coverage may be subject to such exclusions, reductions, or other limitations as to coverages, deductibles, or copayment provisions as may be approved by the Commissioner of Insurance.

(c)(1) A contract executed or renewed on or after July 1, 1998, which provides for financing and delivery of health care services through a managed care plan, other than a dental plan, shall provide coverage for one annual chlamydia screening test for each female who is covered under such contract and who is not more than 29 years of age. Such coverage may be subject to such exclusions, reductions, or other limitations as to coverages, deductibles, or copayment provisions as may be approved by the Commissioner of Insurance.

(2) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prohibit any managed care plan contract from providing benefits greater than or more favorable to the covered females than those required by paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(2) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prohibit any managed care plan contract from providing benefits greater than or more favorable to the covered females than those required by paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(d) Code Section 31-17-8 shall not apply to this Code section.

(d) Code Section 31-17-8 shall not apply to this Code section.

(e) This Code section shall be subject to rules and regulations which shall be promulgated by the Commissioner of Insurance regarding notice and enforcement.

(e) This Code section shall be subject to rules and regulations which shall be promulgated by the Commissioner of Insurance regarding notice and enforcement.
O.C.G.A. § 31-52-5 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 52 / Section 31-52-5
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-52-5
Status: in_force

Written informed consent shall, at a minimum, include the following:

(1) A description of the currently approved products and treatments for the terminal illness from which the patient suffers;

(1) A description of the currently approved products and treatments for the terminal illness from which the patient suffers;

(2) An attestation that the patient concurs with his or her physician in believing that all currently approved and conventionally recognized treatments are unlikely to prolong the patient's life; and the known risks of the investigational drug, biological product, or device are not greater than the probable outcome of the patient's terminal illness;

(2) An attestation that the patient concurs with his or her physician in believing that all currently approved and conventionally recognized treatments are unlikely to prolong the patient's life; and the known risks of the investigational drug, biological product, or device are not greater than the probable outcome of the patient's terminal illness;

(3) Clear identification of the specific proposed investigational drug, biological product, or device that the patient is seeking to use;

(3) Clear identification of the specific proposed investigational drug, biological product, or device that the patient is seeking to use;

(4) A description of the potential best and worst outcomes of using the investigational drug, biological product, or device and a realistic description of the most likely outcome. The description shall include the possibility that new, unanticipated, different, or worse symptoms might result and that death could be hastened by the proposed treatment. The description shall be based on the physician's knowledge of the proposed treatment in conjunction with an awareness of the patient's condition;

(4) A description of the potential best and worst outcomes of using the investigational drug, biological product, or device and a realistic description of the most likely outcome. The description shall include the possibility that new, unanticipated, different, or worse symptoms might result and that death could be hastened by the proposed treatment. The description shall be based on the physician's knowledge of the proposed treatment in conjunction with an awareness of the patient's condition;

(5) A statement that the patient understands that his or her health benefit plan is not obligated to pay for the investigational drug, biological product, or device, or any care or treatment consequent to the use of such drug, product, or device, unless such health benefit plan is specifically required to do so by law or contract;

(5) A statement that the patient understands that his or her health benefit plan is not obligated to pay for the investigational drug, biological product, or device, or any care or treatment consequent to the use of such drug, product, or device, unless such health benefit plan is specifically required to do so by law or contract;

(6) A statement that the patient understands that his or her eligibility for hospice care may be withdrawn if he or she begins treatment with the investigational drug, biological product, or device but that such hospice care may be reinstated if such treatment ends and he or she meets hospice eligibility requirements; and

(6) A statement that the patient understands that his or her eligibility for hospice care may be withdrawn if he or she begins treatment with the investigational drug, biological product, or device but that such hospice care may be reinstated if such treatment ends and he or she meets hospice eligibility requirements; and

(7) A statement that the patient understands that he or she is liable for all expenses consequent to the use of the investigational drug, biological product, or device and that such liability extends to the patient's estate, unless a contract between the patient and the manufacturer of the investigational drug, biological product, or device states otherwise.

(7) A statement that the patient understands that he or she is liable for all expenses consequent to the use of the investigational drug, biological product, or device and that such liability extends to the patient's estate, unless a contract between the patient and the manufacturer of the investigational drug, biological product, or device states otherwise.
O.C.G.A. § 31-12-10 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-12-10
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-12-10
Status: in_force

In carrying out the provisions of this chapter, it shall be the duty of the person in charge of any industrial, commercial, business, or other facility where people work, live, or congregate, upon reasonable notice and at reasonable times, to grant entry to duly authorized agents of the department and of any county board of health.
O.C.G.A. § 31-28-7 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 28 / Section 31-28-7
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-28-7
Status: in_force

Any person, firm, or corporation operating a tourist court without a valid permit shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 31-6-45-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-6-45-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-6-45.1
Status: in_force

(a) A health care facility which has a certificate of need or is otherwise authorized to operate pursuant to this chapter shall have such certificate of need or authority to operate automatically revoked by operation of law without any action by the department when that facility's permit to operate pursuant to Code Section 31-7-4 is finally revoked by order of the department. For purposes of this subsection, the date of such final revocation shall be as follows: (1) When there is no appeal of the order pursuant to Chapter 5 of this title, the one hundred and eightieth day after the date upon which expires the time for appealing the revocation order without such an appeal being filed; or (2) When there is an appeal of the order pursuant to Chapter 5 of this title, the date upon which expires the time to appeal the last administrative or judicial order affirming or approving the revocation or revocation order without such appeal being filed.

(a) A health care facility which has a certificate of need or is otherwise authorized to operate pursuant to this chapter shall have such certificate of need or authority to operate automatically revoked by operation of law without any action by the department when that facility's permit to operate pursuant to Code Section 31-7-4 is finally revoked by order of the department. For purposes of this subsection, the date of such final revocation shall be as follows:

(1) When there is no appeal of the order pursuant to Chapter 5 of this title, the one hundred and eightieth day after the date upon which expires the time for appealing the revocation order without such an appeal being filed; or

(1) When there is no appeal of the order pursuant to Chapter 5 of this title, the one hundred and eightieth day after the date upon which expires the time for appealing the revocation order without such an appeal being filed; or

(2) When there is an appeal of the order pursuant to Chapter 5 of this title, the date upon which expires the time to appeal the last administrative or judicial order affirming or approving the revocation or revocation order without such appeal being filed.

(2) When there is an appeal of the order pursuant to Chapter 5 of this title, the date upon which expires the time to appeal the last administrative or judicial order affirming or approving the revocation or revocation order without such appeal being filed.

(b) The services which had been authorized to be offered by a health care facility for which a certificate of need has been revoked pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section may continue to be offered in the service area in which that facility was located under such conditions as specified by the department notwithstanding that some or all of such services could not otherwise be offered as new institutional health services.

(b) The services which had been authorized to be offered by a health care facility for which a certificate of need has been revoked pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section may continue to be offered in the service area in which that facility was located under such conditions as specified by the department notwithstanding that some or all of such services could not otherwise be offered as new institutional health services.
O.C.G.A. § 31-45-4 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 45 / Section 31-45-4
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-45-4
Status: in_force

(a) On or after December 31, 2000, a permit shall be obtained from the county board of health in the county in which a public swimming pool is located prior to construction or continued operation of a public swimming pool. When the ownership of a public swimming pool changes or if the pool is leased by the owner, it shall be the responsibility of the new owner or lessee to secure a permit issued in his or her name.

(a) On or after December 31, 2000, a permit shall be obtained from the county board of health in the county in which a public swimming pool is located prior to construction or continued operation of a public swimming pool. When the ownership of a public swimming pool changes or if the pool is leased by the owner, it shall be the responsibility of the new owner or lessee to secure a permit issued in his or her name.

(b) Unless suspended or revoked, a swimming pool operation permit shall be valid for the period of operation specified in the application, but in no event shall it be valid for more than 12 months.

(b) Unless suspended or revoked, a swimming pool operation permit shall be valid for the period of operation specified in the application, but in no event shall it be valid for more than 12 months.
O.C.G.A. § 31-3-13 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-3-13
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-3-13
Status: in_force

No population area or unit of this state shall be without health services responsive to its needs. Because it is recognized that all counties are not equally able to effectuate this policy, a county board of health may contract for assistance in the performance of its functions and exercise of its powers, provided that such proposed contract and any amendments thereto shall have first been approved by the department.
O.C.G.A. § 31-34-8 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 34 / Section 31-34-8
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-34-8
Status: in_force

The funds necessary to carry out the loan and grant program authorized by this article may come from funds made available to the board from private, federal, state, or local sources. Funds appropriated by the General Assembly for the purposes of this article shall be appropriated to the Department of Community Health for the specific purpose of the cancelable loan and grant program authorized by this article. The board shall be assigned to the Department of Community Health for administrative purposes only, except that such department shall prepare and submit the budget for that board in concurrence with that board.
O.C.G.A. § 31-49-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 49 / Section 31-49-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-49-1
Status: in_force

The General Assembly finds and declares that it is estimated that as many as 55,000 Georgia residents suffer from lupus, a life-long autoimmune disease in which the immune system becomes unbalanced, causing inflammation, tissue damage, seizures, strokes, heart attacks, miscarriages, and organ failure. Although anyone can develop lupus, it strikes mostly women of childbearing age; African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American women are two to three times more likely than Caucasians to develop lupus. Lupus can be difficult to diagnose and often is misdiagnosed because the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. It is in the public interest for this state to establish an entity to develop and implement a comprehensive program to improve education and awareness about lupus for health care providers and the general public.
O.C.G.A. § 31-2a-52 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 2A / Section 31-2a-52
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-2A-52
Status: in_force

(a) The department shall establish a procedure by which a perinatal facility may request approval as a designated facility which has achieved a particular maternal or neonatal level of care.

(a) The department shall establish a procedure by which a perinatal facility may request approval as a designated facility which has achieved a particular maternal or neonatal level of care.

(b)(1) The department shall establish through rule making the criteria for levels of maternal and neonatal care, ranging from basic care to such additional levels of care as may be deemed appropriate for the protection of mothers and infants at elevated risk. (2) The department shall establish separate criteria for levels of maternal care and neonatal care. Such criteria may include, without limitation, data collection and reporting, arrangements for patient transportation, and protocols for coordination with and referral of patients to and from other health care facilities. (3) In establishing or revising the criteria for maternal and neonatal levels of care, the department shall conduct public comment hearings; solicit the views of hospitals, birthing centers, health care providers, and related professional associations; and give due consideration to the current recommendations of medical and scientific organizations in the field of perinatal medicine.

(b)(1) The department shall establish through rule making the criteria for levels of maternal and neonatal care, ranging from basic care to such additional levels of care as may be deemed appropriate for the protection of mothers and infants at elevated risk.

(b)(1) The department shall establish through rule making the criteria for levels of maternal and neonatal care, ranging from basic care to such additional levels of care as may be deemed appropriate for the protection of mothers and infants at elevated risk.

(2) The department shall establish separate criteria for levels of maternal care and neonatal care. Such criteria may include, without limitation, data collection and reporting, arrangements for patient transportation, and protocols for coordination with and referral of patients to and from other health care facilities.

(2) The department shall establish separate criteria for levels of maternal care and neonatal care. Such criteria may include, without limitation, data collection and reporting, arrangements for patient transportation, and protocols for coordination with and referral of patients to and from other health care facilities.

(3) In establishing or revising the criteria for maternal and neonatal levels of care, the department shall conduct public comment hearings; solicit the views of hospitals, birthing centers, health care providers, and related professional associations; and give due consideration to the current recommendations of medical and scientific organizations in the field of perinatal medicine.

(3) In establishing or revising the criteria for maternal and neonatal levels of care, the department shall conduct public comment hearings; solicit the views of hospitals, birthing centers, health care providers, and related professional associations; and give due consideration to the current recommendations of medical and scientific organizations in the field of perinatal medicine.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-139 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-139
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-139
Status: in_force

A resident, the representative or legal surrogate of the resident, if any, the community ombudsman, the governing body of the personal care home, or any other interested party may bring an action in court for mandamus pursuant to Article 2 of Chapter 6 of Title 9 to order the department to comply with any state or federal law relevant to the operation of a personal care home or the care of its residents.
O.C.G.A. § 31-12-1-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-12-1-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-12-1.1
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “Bioterrorism” means the intentional creation or use of any microorganism, virus, infectious substance, or any component thereof, whether naturally occurring or bioengineered, to cause death, illness, disease, or other biological malfunction in a human, animal, plant, or other living organism in order improperly or illegally to influence the conduct of government, to interfere with or disrupt commerce, or to intimidate or coerce a civilian population.

(1) “Bioterrorism” means the intentional creation or use of any microorganism, virus, infectious substance, or any component thereof, whether naturally occurring or bioengineered, to cause death, illness, disease, or other biological malfunction in a human, animal, plant, or other living organism in order improperly or illegally to influence the conduct of government, to interfere with or disrupt commerce, or to intimidate or coerce a civilian population.

(2) “Public health emergency” means the occurrence or imminent threat of an illness or health condition that is reasonably believed to be caused by bioterrorism or the appearance of a novel or previously controlled or eradicated infectious agent or biological toxin and poses a high probability of any of the following harms: (A) A large number of deaths in the affected population; (B) A large number of serious or long-term disabilities in the affected population; or (C) Widespread exposure to an infectious or toxic agent that poses a significant risk of substantial future harm to a large number of people in the affected population.

(2) “Public health emergency” means the occurrence or imminent threat of an illness or health condition that is reasonably believed to be caused by bioterrorism or the appearance of a novel or previously controlled or eradicated infectious agent or biological toxin and poses a high probability of any of the following harms:

(A) A large number of deaths in the affected population;

(A) A large number of deaths in the affected population;

(B) A large number of serious or long-term disabilities in the affected population; or

(B) A large number of serious or long-term disabilities in the affected population; or

(C) Widespread exposure to an infectious or toxic agent that poses a significant risk of substantial future harm to a large number of people in the affected population.

(C) Widespread exposure to an infectious or toxic agent that poses a significant risk of substantial future harm to a large number of people in the affected population.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-56 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-56
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-56
Status: in_force

(a) Following an investigation, the state ombudsman or community ombudsman shall report his opinions or recommendations to the party or parties affected thereby and shall attempt to resolve the complaint using, whenever possible, informal techniques of mediation, conciliation, and persuasion. With respect to a complaint against the long-term care facility, the ombudsman shall first notify the administrator of the facility in writing and give such administrator a reasonable opportunity to correct any alleged defect. If the administrator fails to take corrective action after a reasonable amount of time or if the defect seriously threatens the safety or well-being of the residents, the state ombudsman or community ombudsman may refer the complaint to an appropriate agency.

(a) Following an investigation, the state ombudsman or community ombudsman shall report his opinions or recommendations to the party or parties affected thereby and shall attempt to resolve the complaint using, whenever possible, informal techniques of mediation, conciliation, and persuasion. With respect to a complaint against the long-term care facility, the ombudsman shall first notify the administrator of the facility in writing and give such administrator a reasonable opportunity to correct any alleged defect. If the administrator fails to take corrective action after a reasonable amount of time or if the defect seriously threatens the safety or well-being of the residents, the state ombudsman or community ombudsman may refer the complaint to an appropriate agency.

(b) Complaints or conditions adversely affecting residents of long-term care facilities which cannot be resolved in the manner described in subsection (a) of this Code section shall, whenever possible, be referred by the state ombudsman or community ombudsman to an appropriate agency.

(b) Complaints or conditions adversely affecting residents of long-term care facilities which cannot be resolved in the manner described in subsection (a) of this Code section shall, whenever possible, be referred by the state ombudsman or community ombudsman to an appropriate agency.

(c) The community ombudsman shall not disclose to the public, either directly or indirectly, the identity of any long-term care facility which is the subject of an investigation unless and until the matter has been reviewed by the office of the state ombudsman and the matter has been referred to an appropriate governmental agency for action.

(c) The community ombudsman shall not disclose to the public, either directly or indirectly, the identity of any long-term care facility which is the subject of an investigation unless and until the matter has been reviewed by the office of the state ombudsman and the matter has been referred to an appropriate governmental agency for action.
O.C.G.A. § 31-21-44-2 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-21-44-2
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-21-44.2
Status: in_force

(a)(1) Any person who throws away or abandons any dead human body or portion of such dead body shall commit the offense of abandonment of a dead body. (2) It shall not be an offense under this subsection to make final disposition of a dead human body or portion of such dead body under a death certificate issued under Chapter 10 of this title or the law of another jurisdiction by interment, entombment, inurnment, scattering of cremated remains, burial at sea, or any means otherwise authorized by law; nor shall it be an offense under this subsection for any law enforcement personnel, medical or medical laboratory personnel, hospital personnel, coroner or medical examiner, funeral director, embalmer, crematory operator, or cemetery operator to perform those duties or acts relating to possession or disposition of a dead human body or portion of such dead body which are otherwise imposed or authorized by law or lawful contract; nor shall use of a dead human body or portion of such dead body at or by an accredited medical school, dental school, college, or university for education, research, or advancement of medical or dental science or therapy be an offense under this subsection.

(a)(1) Any person who throws away or abandons any dead human body or portion of such dead body shall commit the offense of abandonment of a dead body.

(a)(1) Any person who throws away or abandons any dead human body or portion of such dead body shall commit the offense of abandonment of a dead body.

(2) It shall not be an offense under this subsection to make final disposition of a dead human body or portion of such dead body under a death certificate issued under Chapter 10 of this title or the law of another jurisdiction by interment, entombment, inurnment, scattering of cremated remains, burial at sea, or any means otherwise authorized by law; nor shall it be an offense under this subsection for any law enforcement personnel, medical or medical laboratory personnel, hospital personnel, coroner or medical examiner, funeral director, embalmer, crematory operator, or cemetery operator to perform those duties or acts relating to possession or disposition of a dead human body or portion of such dead body which are otherwise imposed or authorized by law or lawful contract; nor shall use of a dead human body or portion of such dead body at or by an accredited medical school, dental school, college, or university for education, research, or advancement of medical or dental science or therapy be an offense under this subsection.

(2) It shall not be an offense under this subsection to make final disposition of a dead human body or portion of such dead body under a death certificate issued under Chapter 10 of this title or the law of another jurisdiction by interment, entombment, inurnment, scattering of cremated remains, burial at sea, or any means otherwise authorized by law; nor shall it be an offense under this subsection for any law enforcement personnel, medical or medical laboratory personnel, hospital personnel, coroner or medical examiner, funeral director, embalmer, crematory operator, or cemetery operator to perform those duties or acts relating to possession or disposition of a dead human body or portion of such dead body which are otherwise imposed or authorized by law or lawful contract; nor shall use of a dead human body or portion of such dead body at or by an accredited medical school, dental school, college, or university for education, research, or advancement of medical or dental science or therapy be an offense under this subsection.

(b) Any person who commits an offense of abandonment of a dead body as provided by subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a felony and shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than three years.

(b) Any person who commits an offense of abandonment of a dead body as provided by subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a felony and shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than three years.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-356 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-356
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-356
Status: in_force

A facility that does not terminate an employee who has been found to have an unsatisfactory determination or failed a registry check shall be liable for a civil monetary penalty in the amount of the lesser of $10,000.00 or $500.00 for each day that a violation occurs. The daily civil monetary penalty shall be imposed only from the time the facility knew or should have known that it employed an individual with a criminal record and until the date such individual's employment is terminated.
O.C.G.A. § 31-5-21 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-5-21
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-5-21
Status: in_force

The commissioner of public health or his or her delegate or the director of any county board of health, in addition to other procedures now or hereafter provided, may obtain an inspection warrant under the conditions specified in this chapter. Such warrant shall authorize the commissioner of public health or the director of any county board of health, or the agents of any, or the Department of Agriculture, as appropriate, to conduct a search or inspection of property, either with or without the consent of the person whose property is to be searched or inspected, if such search or inspection is one that is elsewhere authorized under the rules and regulations duly promulgated under this title or any provision of law which authorizes licensure, inspection, or regulation by the Department of Public Health or a local agency thereof.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-199 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-199
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-199
Status: in_force

The department shall be responsible for and shall pay such amounts as determined by the Department of Administrative Services for insurance premiums for liability coverage for the cost of claims and defense against litigation arising out of health care services delivered pursuant to this article. The department shall be responsible for submitting to the Department of Administrative Services all underwriting information requested by and all insurance premiums assessed by the Department of Administrative Services. The department shall annually report to the Department of Administrative Services the number and type of providers who have entered into a contract pursuant to this article.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-63 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-63
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-63
Status: in_force

The department is authorized to adopt and promulgate rules and regulations to implement this article.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-130 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-130
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-130
Status: in_force

The General Assembly finds and declares that:

(1) Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the United States and in Georgia;

(1) Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the United States and in Georgia;

(2) Georgia ranks as the thirty-eighth worst in the nation for numbers of deaths from cardiovascular disease;

(2) Georgia ranks as the thirty-eighth worst in the nation for numbers of deaths from cardiovascular disease;

(3) There were 79,901 deaths in Georgia in 2015, and cardiovascular disease (excluding stroke) accounted for 23.6 percent of such deaths;

(3) There were 79,901 deaths in Georgia in 2015, and cardiovascular disease (excluding stroke) accounted for 23.6 percent of such deaths;

(4) Approximately 40 percent of cardiac deaths occur suddenly, the result of a heart attack that is manifested by an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest;

(4) Approximately 40 percent of cardiac deaths occur suddenly, the result of a heart attack that is manifested by an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest;

(5) As of 2016, several states, but notably Arizona and Washington, have designated hospitals that are expert in cardiovascular disease care, much in the way that Georgia has stroke and trauma centers; Arizona and Washington have some of the lowest death rates for patients who have heart attacks, in part due to their designated cardiac centers; and

(5) As of 2016, several states, but notably Arizona and Washington, have designated hospitals that are expert in cardiovascular disease care, much in the way that Georgia has stroke and trauma centers; Arizona and Washington have some of the lowest death rates for patients who have heart attacks, in part due to their designated cardiac centers; and

(6) Therefore, it is in the best interest of the residents of this state to establish a program to identify emergency cardiac care centers throughout the state to ensure the rapid triage, assessment, treatment, and transport of patients experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest or heart attack or its complications.

(6) Therefore, it is in the best interest of the residents of this state to establish a program to identify emergency cardiac care centers throughout the state to ensure the rapid triage, assessment, treatment, and transport of patients experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest or heart attack or its complications.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-143 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-143
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-143
Status: in_force

The proceedings and records of medical review committees shall not be subject to discovery or introduction into evidence in any civil action against a provider of professional health services arising out of the matters which are the subject of evaluation and review by such committee; and no person who was in attendance at a meeting of such committee shall be permitted or required to testify in any such civil action as to any evidence or other matters produced or presented during the proceedings of such committee or as to any findings, recommendations, evaluations, opinions, or other actions of such committee or any members thereof. However, information, documents, or records otherwise available from original sources shall not be construed as immune from discovery or use in any such civil action merely because they were presented during proceedings of such committee; nor shall any person who testifies before such committee or who is a member of such committee be prevented from testifying as to matters within his knowledge, provided that such witness may not be questioned regarding his testimony before such a committee or opinions formed by him as a result of such committee hearings.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-6 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-6
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-6
Status: in_force

(a) Any hospital, health care facility, medical or skilled nursing home, or other organization rendering patient care may provide information, interviews, reports, statements, memoranda, or other data relating to the condition and treatment of any person to research groups approved by the medical staff of the institution involved, to governmental health agencies, medical associations and societies, or to any in-hospital medical staff committee, to be used in the course of any study for the purpose of reducing rates of morbidity or mortality; and no liability of any kind or character for damages or other relief shall arise or be enforced against any person or organization by reason of having provided such information or material, or by reason of having released or published the findings and conclusions of such groups to advance medical research or medical education or to achieve the most effective use of health manpower and facilities, or by reason of having released or published generally a summary of such studies.

(a) Any hospital, health care facility, medical or skilled nursing home, or other organization rendering patient care may provide information, interviews, reports, statements, memoranda, or other data relating to the condition and treatment of any person to research groups approved by the medical staff of the institution involved, to governmental health agencies, medical associations and societies, or to any in-hospital medical staff committee, to be used in the course of any study for the purpose of reducing rates of morbidity or mortality; and no liability of any kind or character for damages or other relief shall arise or be enforced against any person or organization by reason of having provided such information or material, or by reason of having released or published the findings and conclusions of such groups to advance medical research or medical education or to achieve the most effective use of health manpower and facilities, or by reason of having released or published generally a summary of such studies.

(b) The research groups approved by the medical staff of the institution involved, governmental health agencies, medical associations and societies, or any in-hospital medical staff committee shall use or publish material described in subsection (a) of this Code section only for the purpose of advancing medical research or medical education, or to achieve the most effective use of health manpower and facilities, in the interest of reducing rates of morbidity or mortality, except that a summary of such studies may be released by any such group for general publication.

(b) The research groups approved by the medical staff of the institution involved, governmental health agencies, medical associations and societies, or any in-hospital medical staff committee shall use or publish material described in subsection (a) of this Code section only for the purpose of advancing medical research or medical education, or to achieve the most effective use of health manpower and facilities, in the interest of reducing rates of morbidity or mortality, except that a summary of such studies may be released by any such group for general publication.

(c) In all events the identity of any person whose condition or treatment has been studied pursuant to this Code section shall be confidential and shall not be revealed under any circumstances.

(c) In all events the identity of any person whose condition or treatment has been studied pursuant to this Code section shall be confidential and shall not be revealed under any circumstances.
O.C.G.A. § 31-44-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 44 / Section 31-44-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-44-1
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “ Board ” means the Board of Community Health.

(1) “ Board ” means the Board of Community Health.

(2) “ Department ” means the Department of Community Health.

(2) “ Department ” means the Department of Community Health.

(3) “Dialysis” means a process by which dissolved substances are removed from a patient's body by diffusion, osmosis, and convection (ultrafiltration) from one fluid compartment to another across a semipermeable membrane.

(3) “Dialysis” means a process by which dissolved substances are removed from a patient's body by diffusion, osmosis, and convection (ultrafiltration) from one fluid compartment to another across a semipermeable membrane.

(4) “Dialysis technician” means an individual who is not a registered nurse or physician and who provides dialysis care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician.

(4) “Dialysis technician” means an individual who is not a registered nurse or physician and who provides dialysis care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician.

(5) “End stage renal disease” means that stage of renal impairment that appears irreversible and permanent and that requires a regular course of dialysis or kidney transplantation to maintain life.

(5) “End stage renal disease” means that stage of renal impairment that appears irreversible and permanent and that requires a regular course of dialysis or kidney transplantation to maintain life.

(6) “End stage renal disease facility” means a facility that provides dialysis treatment, home dialysis training, support services, or any combination thereof to individuals with end stage renal disease.

(6) “End stage renal disease facility” means a facility that provides dialysis treatment, home dialysis training, support services, or any combination thereof to individuals with end stage renal disease.

(7) “Physician” means an individual who is licensed to practice medicine under Article 2 of Chapter 34 of Title 34.

(7) “Physician” means an individual who is licensed to practice medicine under Article 2 of Chapter 34 of Title 34.

(8) “Reuse technician” means an individual who is not a registered nurse or licensed physician who performs the procedures necessary to clean and properly prepare kidney dialyzers for use for multiple treatments.

(8) “Reuse technician” means an individual who is not a registered nurse or licensed physician who performs the procedures necessary to clean and properly prepare kidney dialyzers for use for multiple treatments.
O.C.G.A. § 31-15-4 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-15-4
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-15-4
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall appoint a cancer control officer. The cancer control officer shall be a physician licensed to practice medicine under Chapter 34 of Title 43 and shall be knowledgeable in the field of medicine covered by this chapter. He or she shall administer the cancer program for the Department of Public Health in compliance with this chapter. He or she shall be provided an office with clerical and administrative assistance to carry out this program.
O.C.G.A. § 31-6-50 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-6-50
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-6-50
Status: in_force

The review and appeal considerations and procedures set forth in Code Sections 31-6-42 through 31-6-44 , respectively, shall apply to and govern the review of capital expenditures under the Section 1122 program of the federal Social Security Act of 1935, 1 as amended, including, but not limited to, any application for approval under Section 1122 which is under consideration by the Health Planning Agency or on appeal before the Certificate of Need Appeal Panel, successor to the former Health Planning Review Board as of June 30, 2008.

1 42 U.S.C.A. § 1320a-1.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-80 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-80
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-80
Status: in_force

This article shall be known as the “Long-term Care Facility Resident Abuse Reporting Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-96 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-96
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-96
Status: in_force

This article, being necessary for the welfare of the citizens of the state, shall be liberally construed to effect the purposes hereof; and insofar as this article may be inconsistent with any other law, whether by charter of any political subdivision of the state or otherwise, this article shall be controlling.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-307 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-307
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-307
Status: in_force

(a) A certificate of need issued pursuant to Chapter 6 of this title is not required for any person, business entity, corporation, or association, whether operated for profit or not for profit, which is operating as a private home care provider as long as such operation does not also constitute such person, entity, or organization operating as a home health agency or personal care home under this chapter.

(a) A certificate of need issued pursuant to Chapter 6 of this title is not required for any person, business entity, corporation, or association, whether operated for profit or not for profit, which is operating as a private home care provider as long as such operation does not also constitute such person, entity, or organization operating as a home health agency or personal care home under this chapter.

(b) A license issued under this article shall not entitle the licensee to operate as a home health agency, as defined in Code Section 31-7-150 , under medicare or Medicaid guidelines.

(b) A license issued under this article shall not entitle the licensee to operate as a home health agency, as defined in Code Section 31-7-150 , under medicare or Medicaid guidelines.
O.C.G.A. § 31-21-44-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-21-44-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-21-44.1
Status: in_force

(a)(1) A person commits the offense of abuse of a dead body if, prior to interment and except as otherwise authorized by law, such person willfully defaces a dead body while the dead body is lying in state or is prepared for burial, showing, or cremation whether in a funeral establishment, place of worship, home, or other facility for lying in state or at a grave site. The lawful presence of the offender at a place where the dead body is abused shall not be a defense to a prosecution under this Code section. (2) A person who is providing care to another person, other than in a hospital, either on a permanent or temporary basis, shall, upon the death of such person while in such person's care, be required to notify a local law enforcement agency or coroner or a relative of such deceased person within six hours of the discovery of the death of such person. Any person who intentionally violates the provisions of this paragraph shall commit the offense of abuse of a dead body.

(a)(1) A person commits the offense of abuse of a dead body if, prior to interment and except as otherwise authorized by law, such person willfully defaces a dead body while the dead body is lying in state or is prepared for burial, showing, or cremation whether in a funeral establishment, place of worship, home, or other facility for lying in state or at a grave site. The lawful presence of the offender at a place where the dead body is abused shall not be a defense to a prosecution under this Code section.

(a)(1) A person commits the offense of abuse of a dead body if, prior to interment and except as otherwise authorized by law, such person willfully defaces a dead body while the dead body is lying in state or is prepared for burial, showing, or cremation whether in a funeral establishment, place of worship, home, or other facility for lying in state or at a grave site. The lawful presence of the offender at a place where the dead body is abused shall not be a defense to a prosecution under this Code section.

(2) A person who is providing care to another person, other than in a hospital, either on a permanent or temporary basis, shall, upon the death of such person while in such person's care, be required to notify a local law enforcement agency or coroner or a relative of such deceased person within six hours of the discovery of the death of such person. Any person who intentionally violates the provisions of this paragraph shall commit the offense of abuse of a dead body.

(2) A person who is providing care to another person, other than in a hospital, either on a permanent or temporary basis, shall, upon the death of such person while in such person's care, be required to notify a local law enforcement agency or coroner or a relative of such deceased person within six hours of the discovery of the death of such person. Any person who intentionally violates the provisions of this paragraph shall commit the offense of abuse of a dead body.

(b) Any person who violates subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a felony and shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than three years.

(b) Any person who violates subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a felony and shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than three years.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-35 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-35
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-35
Status: in_force

For each fiscal year, beginning with the 1980-81 fiscal year, payments to hospitals for cost of care of nonresident indigent patients shall be made from the fund. Beginning with the certifications made after the close of the first quarter of the 1980-81 fiscal year, the quarterly certifications of cost of care for nonresident indigent patients made by hospitals pursuant to subsection (a) of Code Section 31-8-34 shall constitute requests for payments from the fund to reimburse such hospitals for the cost of care. Within 30 days after receiving any such request, the commissioner shall authorize the state treasurer to issue a check to the hospital submitting the request for the payment from the fund of the amount requested.
O.C.G.A. § 31-38-6 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 38 / Section 31-38-6
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-38-6
Status: in_force

Tanning booths designed for stand-up use shall also comply with the following additional requirements:

(1) Booths shall have physical barriers or other means, such as handrails or floor markings, to indicate the proper exposure distance between ultraviolet lamps and the consumer's skin;

(1) Booths shall have physical barriers or other means, such as handrails or floor markings, to indicate the proper exposure distance between ultraviolet lamps and the consumer's skin;

(2) Booths shall be constructed with sufficient strength and rigidity to withstand the stress of use and the impact of a falling person;

(2) Booths shall be constructed with sufficient strength and rigidity to withstand the stress of use and the impact of a falling person;

(3) Access to booths shall be of rigid construction with doors which are nonlatching and open outwardly; and

(3) Access to booths shall be of rigid construction with doors which are nonlatching and open outwardly; and

(4) Booths shall be equipped with handrails and nonslip floors.

(4) Booths shall be equipped with handrails and nonslip floors.
O.C.G.A. § 31-44-14 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 44 / Section 31-44-14
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-44-14
Status: in_force

The department may request that the Attorney General bring an action to enjoin either the continued operation of the facility or the closing of the facility in the superior court of the county in which an end stage renal disease facility is located in the name of and on behalf of the state or for the appointment of a temporary manager to manage that end stage renal disease facility if:

(1) The facility is operating without a license;

(1) The facility is operating without a license;

(2) The department has denied, suspended, or revoked the facility's license, but the facility continues to operate;

(2) The department has denied, suspended, or revoked the facility's license, but the facility continues to operate;

(3) License denial, suspension, or revocation proceedings against the facility are pending and the department determines that an imminent or reasonably foreseeable threat to the health and safety of a patient of the facility exists;

(3) License denial, suspension, or revocation proceedings against the facility are pending and the department determines that an imminent or reasonably foreseeable threat to the health and safety of a patient of the facility exists;

(4) The department determines that an emergency exists that presents an immediate threat to the health and safety of a patient of the facility; or

(4) The department determines that an emergency exists that presents an immediate threat to the health and safety of a patient of the facility; or

(5) The facility is closing and arrangements for the care of patients by other licensed facilities have not been made before closure.

(5) The facility is closing and arrangements for the care of patients by other licensed facilities have not been made before closure.
O.C.G.A. § 31-9-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-9-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-9-1
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Georgia Medical Consent Law.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-53-41 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 53 / Section 31-53-41
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-53-41
Status: in_force

(a) There is established the GAPCD Advisory Committee for the purpose of making recommendations regarding the creation of the framework and implementation plan for the GAPCD to facilitate the reporting of health care and health quality data resulting in transparent and public reporting of safety, quality, cost, and efficiency information at all levels of health care. The advisory committee shall consist of the following members: (1) The director, who shall serve as chairperson; (2) The chairperson of the Senate Appropriations Community Health Subcommittee; (3) The chairperson of the House Appropriations Health Subcommittee; (4) The director of the Office of Planning and Budget, or his or her designee; (5) One member from the hospital industry to be appointed by the Governor; (6) One member from the health care philanthropic community to be appointed by the Governor; (7) One member from the insurance industry to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; (8) One member who is a medical provider to be appointed by the Lieutenant Governor; (9) The commissioner of public health, or his or her designee; (10) The commissioner of community health, or his or her designee; (11) The Commissioner of Insurance, or his or her designee; and (12) The director of the Center for Health Analytics and Informatics of the Georgia Institute of Technology.

(a) There is established the GAPCD Advisory Committee for the purpose of making recommendations regarding the creation of the framework and implementation plan for the GAPCD to facilitate the reporting of health care and health quality data resulting in transparent and public reporting of safety, quality, cost, and efficiency information at all levels of health care. The advisory committee shall consist of the following members:

(1) The director, who shall serve as chairperson;

(1) The director, who shall serve as chairperson;

(2) The chairperson of the Senate Appropriations Community Health Subcommittee;

(2) The chairperson of the Senate Appropriations Community Health Subcommittee;

(3) The chairperson of the House Appropriations Health Subcommittee;

(3) The chairperson of the House Appropriations Health Subcommittee;

(4) The director of the Office of Planning and Budget, or his or her designee;

(4) The director of the Office of Planning and Budget, or his or her designee;

(5) One member from the hospital industry to be appointed by the Governor;

(5) One member from the hospital industry to be appointed by the Governor;

(6) One member from the health care philanthropic community to be appointed by the Governor;

(6) One member from the health care philanthropic community to be appointed by the Governor;

(7) One member from the insurance industry to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;

(7) One member from the insurance industry to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;

(8) One member who is a medical provider to be appointed by the Lieutenant Governor;

(8) One member who is a medical provider to be appointed by the Lieutenant Governor;

(9) The commissioner of public health, or his or her designee;

(9) The commissioner of public health, or his or her designee;

(10) The commissioner of community health, or his or her designee;

(10) The commissioner of community health, or his or her designee;

(11) The Commissioner of Insurance, or his or her designee; and

(11) The Commissioner of Insurance, or his or her designee; and

(12) The director of the Center for Health Analytics and Informatics of the Georgia Institute of Technology.

(12) The director of the Center for Health Analytics and Informatics of the Georgia Institute of Technology.

(b) The members appointed pursuant to paragraphs (5), (6), (7), and (8) of subsection (a) of this Code section shall be appointed no later than October 1, 2020; provided, however, that the advisory committee shall be operational and shall conduct its work even if one or more of such members is not timely appointed. Appointed members of the advisory committee shall each serve for a term of two years. A vacancy in an appointed seat shall be filled by appointment for the remainder of the term, and each appointing authority retains the right to reappoint members whose terms of appointment have expired.

(b) The members appointed pursuant to paragraphs (5), (6), (7), and (8) of subsection (a) of this Code section shall be appointed no later than October 1, 2020; provided, however, that the advisory committee shall be operational and shall conduct its work even if one or more of such members is not timely appointed. Appointed members of the advisory committee shall each serve for a term of two years. A vacancy in an appointed seat shall be filled by appointment for the remainder of the term, and each appointing authority retains the right to reappoint members whose terms of appointment have expired.

(c) The advisory committee shall meet at the call of the chairperson and shall meet at least quarterly.

(c) The advisory committee shall meet at the call of the chairperson and shall meet at least quarterly.

(d) Members of the advisory committee shall serve without compensation but shall be entitled to receive reimbursement for per diem and travel expenses as provided in Code Section 45-7-21 .

(d) Members of the advisory committee shall serve without compensation but shall be entitled to receive reimbursement for per diem and travel expenses as provided in Code Section 45-7-21 .

(e) The director shall be authorized to appoint ad hoc nonvoting members to the advisory committee, convene one or more panels, and consult with experts when expertise is deemed necessary in the performance of the functions of the advisory committee.

(e) The director shall be authorized to appoint ad hoc nonvoting members to the advisory committee, convene one or more panels, and consult with experts when expertise is deemed necessary in the performance of the functions of the advisory committee.
O.C.G.A. § 31-13-9 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-13-9
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-13-9
Status: in_force

(a) The Department of Community Health and the Department of Natural Resources are authorized to require, in accordance with applicable provisions of this chapter, each person who possesses or uses a source of radiation (1) to maintain appropriate records relating to its receipt, storage, use, transfer, or disposal and to maintain such other records as the Department of Community Health or the Department of Natural Resources, as is applicable, may require, subject to such exemptions as may be provided by rules and regulations; and (2) to maintain appropriate records showing the radiation exposure of all individuals for whom personnel monitoring may be required by the Department of Community Health or the Department of Natural Resources, as is applicable, subject to such exemptions as may be provided by rules and regulations. Copies of all records required to be kept by this subsection shall be submitted to the Department of Community Health or the Department of Natural Resources, as is appropriate, or the duly authorized agents of such department upon request.

(a) The Department of Community Health and the Department of Natural Resources are authorized to require, in accordance with applicable provisions of this chapter, each person who possesses or uses a source of radiation (1) to maintain appropriate records relating to its receipt, storage, use, transfer, or disposal and to maintain such other records as the Department of Community Health or the Department of Natural Resources, as is applicable, may require, subject to such exemptions as may be provided by rules and regulations; and (2) to maintain appropriate records showing the radiation exposure of all individuals for whom personnel monitoring may be required by the Department of Community Health or the Department of Natural Resources, as is applicable, subject to such exemptions as may be provided by rules and regulations. Copies of all records required to be kept by this subsection shall be submitted to the Department of Community Health or the Department of Natural Resources, as is appropriate, or the duly authorized agents of such department upon request.

(b) The Department of Community Health and the Department of Natural Resources are authorized to require, in accordance with applicable provisions of this chapter, any person possessing or using a source of radiation to furnish, at the request of any employee for whom personnel monitoring is required, a copy of such employee's personal exposure record annually, upon termination of employment, and at any time such employee has received excessive exposure.

(b) The Department of Community Health and the Department of Natural Resources are authorized to require, in accordance with applicable provisions of this chapter, any person possessing or using a source of radiation to furnish, at the request of any employee for whom personnel monitoring is required, a copy of such employee's personal exposure record annually, upon termination of employment, and at any time such employee has received excessive exposure.
O.C.G.A. § 31-18-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 18 / Section 31-18-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-18-1
Status: in_force

It is the intent of the General Assembly to create a state-wide central registry for traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries to ensure the registration of all persons with traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries in order that all such persons might obtain information about rehabilitative, independent living, and other services or goods provided by existing state agencies, departments, other organizations, and individuals.
O.C.G.A. § 31-2a-54 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 2A / Section 31-2a-54
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-2A-54
Status: in_force

(a) On or before December 31, 2019, the department shall post and annually update a list of designated facilities on its website.

(a) On or before December 31, 2019, the department shall post and annually update a list of designated facilities on its website.

(b) The department shall adopt or develop a self-assessment tool for use by perinatal facilities that includes separate, minimum requirements for neonatal and maternal levels of care. The department shall post this assessment tool on its website no later than July 1, 2019.

(b) The department shall adopt or develop a self-assessment tool for use by perinatal facilities that includes separate, minimum requirements for neonatal and maternal levels of care. The department shall post this assessment tool on its website no later than July 1, 2019.
O.C.G.A. § 31-28-3 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 28 / Section 31-28-3
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-28-3
Status: in_force

The county boards of health may suspend or revoke permits where the health, sanitation, and safety of the public require such action. When, in the judgment of such board or its duly authorized agents, it is necessary and proper that such application for a permit be denied or that a permit previously granted be suspended or revoked, the applicant or holder of the permit shall be notified thereof in writing and shall be afforded an opportunity for hearing as provided in Article 1 of Chapter 5 of this title. In the event that such application is finally denied or such permit finally suspended or revoked, the applicant or holder thereof shall be given notice in writing, which notice shall specifically state the reasons why the application or permit has been suspended, revoked, or denied.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-119 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-119
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-119
Status: in_force

The department shall be authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to carry out the purposes of this article.
O.C.G.A. § 31-9-4 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-9-4
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-9-4
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be applicable to the care and treatment of patients in facilities for the mentally ill as defined in paragraph (7) of Code Section 37-3-1 .
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-167 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-167
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-167
Status: in_force

The department shall report annually to the General Assembly on its use of revenues deposited into the segregated account and appropriated to the department pursuant to this article.
O.C.G.A. § 31-23-9 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-23-9
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-23-9
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful: (1) For any person to sell either his eyes or any parts thereof or the eyes or any parts thereof of another person or to receive any remuneration for the giving of a human eye or any part thereof; (2) For the person or persons operating and maintaining any eye bank to sell any donated eye or donated part thereof or knowingly to extract, remove, or take possession of any human eye or part thereof for which any person received compensation or remuneration; or (3) For any person or persons to establish or operate any eye bank without approval of the department or otherwise not in accordance with this chapter.

(a) It shall be unlawful:

(1) For any person to sell either his eyes or any parts thereof or the eyes or any parts thereof of another person or to receive any remuneration for the giving of a human eye or any part thereof;

(1) For any person to sell either his eyes or any parts thereof or the eyes or any parts thereof of another person or to receive any remuneration for the giving of a human eye or any part thereof;

(2) For the person or persons operating and maintaining any eye bank to sell any donated eye or donated part thereof or knowingly to extract, remove, or take possession of any human eye or part thereof for which any person received compensation or remuneration; or

(2) For the person or persons operating and maintaining any eye bank to sell any donated eye or donated part thereof or knowingly to extract, remove, or take possession of any human eye or part thereof for which any person received compensation or remuneration; or

(3) For any person or persons to establish or operate any eye bank without approval of the department or otherwise not in accordance with this chapter.

(3) For any person or persons to establish or operate any eye bank without approval of the department or otherwise not in accordance with this chapter.

(b) Any person who violates any provision of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(b) Any person who violates any provision of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 31-2a-19 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 2A / Section 31-2a-19
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-2A-19
Status: in_force

(a) The Department of Public Health shall conduct a pilot program to provide home visiting in at-risk and underserved rural communities during pregnancy and early childhood to improve birth outcomes, reduce preterm deliveries, and decrease infant and maternal mortality.

(a) The Department of Public Health shall conduct a pilot program to provide home visiting in at-risk and underserved rural communities during pregnancy and early childhood to improve birth outcomes, reduce preterm deliveries, and decrease infant and maternal mortality.

(b) No later than December 31, 2024, the department shall submit a detailed written report on the implementation and effectiveness of the pilot program to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President of the Senate, and the chairpersons of the House Committee on Public Health and the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Such report shall also include recommendations as to expansion of the pilot program state wide.

(b) No later than December 31, 2024, the department shall submit a detailed written report on the implementation and effectiveness of the pilot program to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President of the Senate, and the chairpersons of the House Committee on Public Health and the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Such report shall also include recommendations as to expansion of the pilot program state wide.

(c) This Code section shall be contingent upon appropriations made by the General Assembly specifically for the department for such purposes.

(c) This Code section shall be contingent upon appropriations made by the General Assembly specifically for the department for such purposes.
O.C.G.A. § 31-13-18 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-13-18
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-13-18
Status: in_force

Whenever a person is aggrieved or adversely affected by any action or by any order or orders of the director, such person may request and obtain a hearing by filing a petition with the director within 30 days after service of the order or notice of action. Such hearing and any other hearing under this chapter shall be conducted pursuant to Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-20-5 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 20 / Section 31-20-5
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-20-5
Status: in_force

When an operation shall have been performed in compliance with this chapter, no physician duly licensed without restriction to practice medicine and surgery in this state or other person legally participating in the execution of this chapter shall be liable civilly or criminally as a result of such operation or participation therein, except in the case of negligence in the performance of such operation. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed so as to require compliance therewith where medical or surgical treatment for sound therapeutic purposes, by a physician duly licensed without restriction to practice medicine and surgery in this state, is required of any person in this state and where such treatment, at the same time that it serves such purposes, may involve the nullification or destruction of reproductive functions.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-9 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-9
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-9
Status: in_force

The department and its duly authorized agents are authorized to enforce compliance with this chapter and rules and regulations promulgated under this chapter as provided in Article 1 of Chapter 5 of this title and, in connection therewith during the reasonable business hours of the day, to enter upon and inspect in a reasonable manner the premises of persons providing ambulance service. All inspections under this Code section shall be in compliance with the provisions of Article 2 of Chapter 5 of this title. The department is also authorized to enforce compliance with this chapter, including but not limited to compliance with the EMSC Program and furnishing of emergency services within designated territories, by imposing fines in the same manner as provided in paragraph (6) of subsection (c) of Code Section 31-2-8 ; this enforcement action shall be a contested case under Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-53-2 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 53 / Section 31-53-2
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-53-2
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “ Director ” means the director of health strategy and coordination established pursuant to Code Section 31-53-4 .

(1) “ Director ” means the director of health strategy and coordination established pursuant to Code Section 31-53-4 .

(2) “ Office ” means the Office of Health Strategy and Coordination established pursuant to Code Section 31-53-3 .

(2) “ Office ” means the Office of Health Strategy and Coordination established pursuant to Code Section 31-53-3 .
O.C.G.A. § 31-53-20 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 53 / Section 31-53-20
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-53-20
Status: in_force

(a) The General Assembly finds that: (1) Cost of care, diagnostic metrics, care gaps, and best practices are best analyzed with large-scale data; (2) The current data infrastructure must be adapted to adequately integrate state and private resources in a manner that will serve the divergent needs of the state; (3) All components of state data collection and dissemination infrastructure must be more strategic and better coordinated to serve policy makers and health care providers; and (4) A more robust data base will also serve as a platform to provide resources to the public for healthy living and cost transparency.

(a) The General Assembly finds that:

(1) Cost of care, diagnostic metrics, care gaps, and best practices are best analyzed with large-scale data;

(1) Cost of care, diagnostic metrics, care gaps, and best practices are best analyzed with large-scale data;

(2) The current data infrastructure must be adapted to adequately integrate state and private resources in a manner that will serve the divergent needs of the state;

(2) The current data infrastructure must be adapted to adequately integrate state and private resources in a manner that will serve the divergent needs of the state;

(3) All components of state data collection and dissemination infrastructure must be more strategic and better coordinated to serve policy makers and health care providers; and

(3) All components of state data collection and dissemination infrastructure must be more strategic and better coordinated to serve policy makers and health care providers; and

(4) A more robust data base will also serve as a platform to provide resources to the public for healthy living and cost transparency.

(4) A more robust data base will also serve as a platform to provide resources to the public for healthy living and cost transparency.

(b) The General Assembly, therefore, declares it to be the public policy of this state to unite the major stakeholders of the state's health care system under a common data platform. The public policy of the state will be served by restructuring data silos to inform policy makers, health care providers, and consumers.

(b) The General Assembly, therefore, declares it to be the public policy of this state to unite the major stakeholders of the state's health care system under a common data platform. The public policy of the state will be served by restructuring data silos to inform policy makers, health care providers, and consumers.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-42 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-42
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-42
Status: in_force

Any hospital which operates an emergency service shall be required to provide the appropriate, necessary emergency services to any pregnant woman who is a resident of this state and who presents herself in active labor to the hospital, if those services are usually and customarily provided in that facility, which services shall be provided within the scope of generally accepted practice based upon the information furnished the hospital by the pregnant woman, including such information as the pregnant woman reveals concerning her prenatal care, diet, allergies, previous births, general health information, and other such information as the pregnant woman may furnish the hospital. If, in the medical judgment of the physician responsible for the emergency service, the hospital must transfer the patient because the hospital is unable to provide appropriate treatment, the hospital where the patient has presented herself shall:

(1) Within the capabilities of the hospital provide such emergency services as the circumstances require, which services shall be provided within the scope of generally accepted practice based upon the information furnished the hospital by the pregnant woman, including such information as the pregnant woman reveals concerning her prenatal care, diet, allergies, previous births, general health information, and other such information as the pregnant woman may furnish the hospital;

(1) Within the capabilities of the hospital provide such emergency services as the circumstances require, which services shall be provided within the scope of generally accepted practice based upon the information furnished the hospital by the pregnant woman, including such information as the pregnant woman reveals concerning her prenatal care, diet, allergies, previous births, general health information, and other such information as the pregnant woman may furnish the hospital;

(2) Contact an appropriate receiving hospital and notify such hospital that the patient is in transit;

(2) Contact an appropriate receiving hospital and notify such hospital that the patient is in transit;

(3) Arrange suitable transportation for the patient if necessary; and

(3) Arrange suitable transportation for the patient if necessary; and

(4) Send to the receiving hospital any available information on the patient's history and condition.

(4) Send to the receiving hospital any available information on the patient's history and condition.

The transfer shall not be authorized until the physician considers the patient sufficiently stabilized for transport.
O.C.G.A. § 31-10-19 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-10-19
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-10-19
Status: in_force

Each induced termination of pregnancy which occurs in this state, regardless of the length of gestation or weight, shall be reported directly to the department within ten days by the person in charge of the institution or clinic, or designated representative, in which the induced termination of pregnancy was performed. If the induced termination of pregnancy was performed outside an institution or clinic, the attending physician shall prepare and file the report within the time specified by this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-116 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-116
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-116
Status: in_force

(a) In order to assure that the patients are receiving the appropriate level of care and treatment at each level of stroke center in the state, each hospital identified as a stroke center shall annually report information, as specified by the department in its rules and regulations, to the department.

(a) In order to assure that the patients are receiving the appropriate level of care and treatment at each level of stroke center in the state, each hospital identified as a stroke center shall annually report information, as specified by the department in its rules and regulations, to the department.

(b) The department shall collect the information reported pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section and shall post such information in the form of a report card annually on the department's website and present such report to the Office of Health Strategy and Coordination. The results of this report card may be used by the department to conduct training with the identified facilities regarding best practices in the treatment of stroke.

(b) The department shall collect the information reported pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section and shall post such information in the form of a report card annually on the department's website and present such report to the Office of Health Strategy and Coordination. The results of this report card may be used by the department to conduct training with the identified facilities regarding best practices in the treatment of stroke.

(c) In no way shall this article be construed to require disclosure of any confidential information or other data in violation of the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, P.L. 104-191.

(c) In no way shall this article be construed to require disclosure of any confidential information or other data in violation of the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, P.L. 104-191.
O.C.G.A. § 31-10-21 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-10-21
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-10-21
Status: in_force

(a) A record of each marriage performed in this state shall be filed with the department and shall be registered if it has been completed and filed in accordance with this Code section.

(a) A record of each marriage performed in this state shall be filed with the department and shall be registered if it has been completed and filed in accordance with this Code section.

(b) The official who issues the marriage license shall cause to be prepared the record on the application supplement-marriage report form, including at a minimum the information set out in subsection (b) of Code Section 19-3-33 , upon the basis of information obtained from both of the parties to be married.

(b) The official who issues the marriage license shall cause to be prepared the record on the application supplement-marriage report form, including at a minimum the information set out in subsection (b) of Code Section 19-3-33 , upon the basis of information obtained from both of the parties to be married.

(c) A person who performs a marriage shall certify the fact of marriage and return the license to the official who issued the license within ten days after the ceremony. The license shall be completed as prescribed by regulations of the department.

(c) A person who performs a marriage shall certify the fact of marriage and return the license to the official who issued the license within ten days after the ceremony. The license shall be completed as prescribed by regulations of the department.

(d) Every official issuing marriage licenses shall complete and forward to the department on or before the tenth day of each calendar month an application supplement-marriage report form for each marriage license returned to such official during the preceding calendar month. Such forms may be transmitted in the form of paper or electronically.

(d) Every official issuing marriage licenses shall complete and forward to the department on or before the tenth day of each calendar month an application supplement-marriage report form for each marriage license returned to such official during the preceding calendar month. Such forms may be transmitted in the form of paper or electronically.

(e) The official issuing a marriage license shall keep the original of the application and license for the county records from which the official may issue certified copies but need not retain the prepared application supplement-marriage report forms except to the extent necessary for transmission of such forms to the registrar and confirmation of transmission or receipt.

(e) The official issuing a marriage license shall keep the original of the application and license for the county records from which the official may issue certified copies but need not retain the prepared application supplement-marriage report forms except to the extent necessary for transmission of such forms to the registrar and confirmation of transmission or receipt.

(f) In addition to the fee provided by Code Section 15-9-60 , the official shall be entitled to a filing fee of $1.00 to be paid by the applicant upon application for the marriage license.

(f) In addition to the fee provided by Code Section 15-9-60 , the official shall be entitled to a filing fee of $1.00 to be paid by the applicant upon application for the marriage license.
O.C.G.A. § 31-23-8 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-23-8
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-23-8
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter shall affect, interfere with, or change presently existing methods of the medical or scientific operation, treatment, examination, or instruction pertaining to the eyes of human beings as the same is now carried on in the hospitals or under the medical schools of this state.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-79 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-79
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-79
Status: in_force

Neither the members of an authority nor any person executing certificates on behalf of an authority shall be personally liable thereon by reason of the issuance thereof. The certificates and other obligations of an authority shall not be, and shall so state on the face thereof, a debt of the city, the county, the state or any political subdivision thereof, or any combination of subdivisions acting jointly as provided in this article. Certificates of any authority are declared to be issued for an essential public and governmental purpose and, together with interest thereon and income therefrom, shall be exempt from all taxes.
O.C.G.A. § 31-27-9 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 27 / Section 31-27-9
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-27-9
Status: in_force

The department is authorized to adopt and promulgate such rules and regulations as may appear necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-56 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-56
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-56
Status: in_force

Certificates issued to emergency medical technicians pursuant to this chapter may be revoked for good cause, as set forth in the rules and regulations, by the department after notice to the certificate holder of the charges and an opportunity for hearing. Such proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-27-10 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 27 / Section 31-27-10
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-27-10
Status: in_force

This chapter shall not apply to:

(1) Any mass gathering which is to be held in any regularly established permanent place of worship, athletic field, auditorium, coliseum, or other similar permanently established building within the maximum seating capacity;

(1) Any mass gathering which is to be held in any regularly established permanent place of worship, athletic field, auditorium, coliseum, or other similar permanently established building within the maximum seating capacity;

(2) Fairs and similar industrial-agricultural exhibitions which have been in existence for at least five consecutive years prior to July 1, 1971; or

(2) Fairs and similar industrial-agricultural exhibitions which have been in existence for at least five consecutive years prior to July 1, 1971; or

(3) Religious gatherings that are held for no more than seven days.

(3) Religious gatherings that are held for no more than seven days.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-156 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-156
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-156
Status: in_force

The department is authorized to establish by standards and policies a fee system which will be applied to all services under this article in order to defray the actual expenses which are incurred by discharging the obligations of this article.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-84 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-84
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-84
Status: in_force

(a) Upon the receipt of the results of an investigation, the department, in cooperation with the investigating agency, shall immediately evaluate such results to determine what actions shall be taken to assist the resident.

(a) Upon the receipt of the results of an investigation, the department, in cooperation with the investigating agency, shall immediately evaluate such results to determine what actions shall be taken to assist the resident.

(b) The department or an agency designated by the department shall assist and prevent further harm to a resident who has been abused or exploited. The department may also take appropriate legal actions to assure the safety and welfare of all other residents of the facility where necessary.

(b) The department or an agency designated by the department shall assist and prevent further harm to a resident who has been abused or exploited. The department may also take appropriate legal actions to assure the safety and welfare of all other residents of the facility where necessary.

(c) Within a reasonable time not to exceed 30 days after it has initiated action to assist a resident, the department shall determine the current condition of the resident, whether the abuse or exploitation has been abated, and whether continued assistance is necessary.

(c) Within a reasonable time not to exceed 30 days after it has initiated action to assist a resident, the department shall determine the current condition of the resident, whether the abuse or exploitation has been abated, and whether continued assistance is necessary.

(d) If as a result of an investigation a determination is made that a resident has been abused or exploited, the department shall contact the appropriate prosecuting authority and provide all information and evidence to such prosecuting authority.

(d) If as a result of an investigation a determination is made that a resident has been abused or exploited, the department shall contact the appropriate prosecuting authority and provide all information and evidence to such prosecuting authority.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-182 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-182
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-182
Status: in_force

(a) Any entity, facility, program, or any instrumentality of the state or political subdivision of the state other than those excluded by Code Section 31-8-181 which advertises, markets, or offers to provide specialized care, treatment, or therapeutic activities for one or more persons with a probable diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or Alzheimer's related dementia shall disclose the form of care, treatment, or therapeutic activities provided beyond that care, treatment, or therapeutic activities provided to persons who do not have a probable diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or Alzheimer's related dementia.

(a) Any entity, facility, program, or any instrumentality of the state or political subdivision of the state other than those excluded by Code Section 31-8-181 which advertises, markets, or offers to provide specialized care, treatment, or therapeutic activities for one or more persons with a probable diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or Alzheimer's related dementia shall disclose the form of care, treatment, or therapeutic activities provided beyond that care, treatment, or therapeutic activities provided to persons who do not have a probable diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or Alzheimer's related dementia.

(b) The disclosure required by subsection (a) of this Code section shall be made in writing on the disclosure form provided for by subsection (c) of this Code section and provided to any person seeking information concerning placement in or care, treatment, or therapeutic activities from the entity, facility, program, or the instrumentality of the state or of a political subdivision of the state other than those excluded by Code Section 31-8-181 .

(b) The disclosure required by subsection (a) of this Code section shall be made in writing on the disclosure form provided for by subsection (c) of this Code section and provided to any person seeking information concerning placement in or care, treatment, or therapeutic activities from the entity, facility, program, or the instrumentality of the state or of a political subdivision of the state other than those excluded by Code Section 31-8-181 .

(c) With input from persons and organizations with experience or expertise regarding care, treatment, or therapeutic activities for persons who have Alzheimer's disease or Alzheimer's related dementia, the department shall develop a standard disclosure form. The disclosure shall be made on such form. The entity, facility, program, or the instrumentality of the state or a political subdivision of the state other than those excluded by Code Section 31-8-181 shall revise the disclosure form whenever significant changes are made.

(c) With input from persons and organizations with experience or expertise regarding care, treatment, or therapeutic activities for persons who have Alzheimer's disease or Alzheimer's related dementia, the department shall develop a standard disclosure form. The disclosure shall be made on such form. The entity, facility, program, or the instrumentality of the state or a political subdivision of the state other than those excluded by Code Section 31-8-181 shall revise the disclosure form whenever significant changes are made.
O.C.G.A. § 31-21-22 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-21-22
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-21-22
Status: in_force

Notice shall not be given nor shall any body be delivered pursuant to Code Section 31-21-21 if the deceased person was a traveler who died suddenly. In such cases, the next of kin shall be notified concerning the disposition of the dead body. If no next of kin is located, or no replies from next of kin are received, or the body is unclaimed within 72 hours, the procedure indicated in this chapter shall apply.
O.C.G.A. § 31-38-3 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 38 / Section 31-38-3
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-38-3
Status: in_force

Each tanning facility in this state shall be constructed, operated, and maintained in accordance with the requirements of Code Sections 31-38-4 through 31-38-8 .
O.C.G.A. § 31-52-9 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 52 / Section 31-52-9
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-52-9
Status: in_force

No official, employee, or agent of the state shall block or attempt to block an eligible patient's access to an investigational drug, biological product, or device. Counseling, advice, or a recommendation for treatment consistent with medical standards of care shall not be construed as a violation of this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 31-36a-2 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 36A / Section 31-36a-2
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-36A-2
Status: in_force

(a) The General Assembly recognizes that there may be occasions when an adult has not made advance arrangements for a situation when he or she is unable to consent to his or her own admission to or discharge from one health care facility or placement or transfer to another health care facility or placement. Under these circumstances, the General Assembly further recognizes that it may be necessary and in the adult's best interest to be admitted to or discharged from one health care facility or placement or transferred to an alternative facility or placement.

(a) The General Assembly recognizes that there may be occasions when an adult has not made advance arrangements for a situation when he or she is unable to consent to his or her own admission to or discharge from one health care facility or placement or transfer to another health care facility or placement. Under these circumstances, the General Assembly further recognizes that it may be necessary and in the adult's best interest to be admitted to or discharged from one health care facility or placement or transferred to an alternative facility or placement.

(b) In recognition of the findings in subsection (a) of this Code section, the General Assembly declares that the laws of the State of Georgia shall provide for the most appropriate placement available for these individuals and shall declare an order of priority for those persons who may make the decision to transfer, admit, or discharge such adults at the appointed times and a procedure for obtaining authorization from the court in the absence of a person authorized to consent.

(b) In recognition of the findings in subsection (a) of this Code section, the General Assembly declares that the laws of the State of Georgia shall provide for the most appropriate placement available for these individuals and shall declare an order of priority for those persons who may make the decision to transfer, admit, or discharge such adults at the appointed times and a procedure for obtaining authorization from the court in the absence of a person authorized to consent.
O.C.G.A. § 31-1-19 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-1-19
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-1-19
Status: in_force

(a) Neither the state nor any department, agency, bureau, authority, office, or other unit of the state nor any political subdivision of the state shall expend or use moneys, human resources, or assets to advocate or intended to influence the citizens of this state in support of the voluntary expansion by the State of Georgia of eligibility for medical assistance in furtherance of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Public Law 111-148 , beyond the eligibility criteria in effect on April 15, 2014, under the provisions of 42 U.S.C. Section 1396a(a)(10)(A)(i)(VIII) of the federal Social Security Act, as amended.

(a) Neither the state nor any department, agency, bureau, authority, office, or other unit of the state nor any political subdivision of the state shall expend or use moneys, human resources, or assets to advocate or intended to influence the citizens of this state in support of the voluntary expansion by the State of Georgia of eligibility for medical assistance in furtherance of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Public Law 111-148 , beyond the eligibility criteria in effect on April 15, 2014, under the provisions of 42 U.S.C. Section 1396a(a)(10)(A)(i)(VIII) of the federal Social Security Act, as amended.

(b) The Attorney General shall enforce the provisions of this Code section in accordance with Article V, Section III, Paragraph IV of the Constitution of the State of Georgia .

(b) The Attorney General shall enforce the provisions of this Code section in accordance with Article V, Section III, Paragraph IV of the Constitution of the State of Georgia .

(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to prevent an officer or employee of the State of Georgia or of any department, agency, bureau, authority, office, unit, or political subdivision thereof from advocating or attempting to influence public policy: (1) As part of such person's official duties; (2) When acting on personal time without using state resources; or (3) When providing bona fide educational instruction about the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 in institutions of higher learning or otherwise.

(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to prevent an officer or employee of the State of Georgia or of any department, agency, bureau, authority, office, unit, or political subdivision thereof from advocating or attempting to influence public policy:

(1) As part of such person's official duties;

(1) As part of such person's official duties;

(2) When acting on personal time without using state resources; or

(2) When acting on personal time without using state resources; or

(3) When providing bona fide educational instruction about the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 in institutions of higher learning or otherwise.

(3) When providing bona fide educational instruction about the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 in institutions of higher learning or otherwise.

(d) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to preclude the state from participating in any Medicaid program.

(d) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to preclude the state from participating in any Medicaid program.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-139 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-139
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-139
Status: in_force

The office shall be authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to carry out the purposes of this article.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-407 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-407
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-407
Status: in_force

The Attorney General shall have the authority to ensure compliance with any and all notices, certifications, obligations, and commitments which are required to be made in connection with a transaction under this article and may institute proceedings to enforce such compliance in the superior court of the county in which the main campus of the hospital is located. This provision shall not preclude any other person with standing from instituting judicial proceedings regarding the proposed disposition.
O.C.G.A. § 31-3-10 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-3-10
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-3-10
Status: in_force

The county board of health may require the legal services of the county attorney or, its budget permitting, may employ other counsel to assist in performing its duties.
O.C.G.A. § 31-21-25 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-21-25
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-21-25
Status: in_force

No school or college shall be allowed or permitted to receive any body or bodies described in Code Section 31-21-21 until a bond shall have been given to the Department of Community Health by or in behalf of the school or college by its authorized officers, to be approved by the clerk of the superior court of the county in which the school or college is situated and to be filed in the office of such clerk. The bond shall be in the sum of $5,000.00 and shall be conditioned that the body or bodies received thereafter by the school or college shall be used only in the manner specified in this article and solely for the promotion of medical science in this state. Actions thereon shall be in the name of the Department of Community Health, and any sums recovered shall be deposited in the state treasury.
O.C.G.A. § 31-40-5 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 40 / Section 31-40-5
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-40-5
Status: in_force

(a) The department shall have the power to adopt and promulgate rules and regulations to ensure the protection of the public health. Such rules and regulations shall prescribe health and safety standards for body artists and body art studios with regard to: (1) Location and cleanliness of facilities; (2) Sterilization and Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines for the prevention and spread of infectious diseases by all personnel; (3) Informed consent by the person receiving any form of body art; (4) Procedures for ensuring adequate explanation to consumers of the proper subsequent care of any form of body art; (5) Proper use and maintenance of equipment, including tools, dyes, and pigments; and (6) Competence and specialized knowledge of body artists.

(a) The department shall have the power to adopt and promulgate rules and regulations to ensure the protection of the public health. Such rules and regulations shall prescribe health and safety standards for body artists and body art studios with regard to:

(1) Location and cleanliness of facilities;

(1) Location and cleanliness of facilities;

(2) Sterilization and Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines for the prevention and spread of infectious diseases by all personnel;

(2) Sterilization and Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines for the prevention and spread of infectious diseases by all personnel;

(3) Informed consent by the person receiving any form of body art;

(3) Informed consent by the person receiving any form of body art;

(4) Procedures for ensuring adequate explanation to consumers of the proper subsequent care of any form of body art;

(4) Procedures for ensuring adequate explanation to consumers of the proper subsequent care of any form of body art;

(5) Proper use and maintenance of equipment, including tools, dyes, and pigments; and

(5) Proper use and maintenance of equipment, including tools, dyes, and pigments; and

(6) Competence and specialized knowledge of body artists.

(6) Competence and specialized knowledge of body artists.

(b) County boards of health are empowered to adopt and promulgate supplementary rules and regulations consistent with those adopted and promulgated by the department.

(b) County boards of health are empowered to adopt and promulgate supplementary rules and regulations consistent with those adopted and promulgated by the department.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-350 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-350
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-350
Status: in_force

(a) This article shall be known and may be cited as the “Georgia Long-term Care Background Check Program.”

(a) This article shall be known and may be cited as the “Georgia Long-term Care Background Check Program.”

(b) The purpose of this article is to establish the minimum standards for the Georgia Long-term Care Background Check Program for conducting criminal background checks of owners, applicants for employment, and direct access employees at certain facilities.

(b) The purpose of this article is to establish the minimum standards for the Georgia Long-term Care Background Check Program for conducting criminal background checks of owners, applicants for employment, and direct access employees at certain facilities.
O.C.G.A. § 31-11-54 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-54
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-11-54
Status: in_force

(a) Upon certification by the department, paramedics may perform any service that a cardiac technician is permitted to perform. In addition, upon the order of a duly licensed physician and subject to the conditions set forth in paragraph (2) of subsection (a) of Code Section 31-11-55 , paramedics may perform any other procedures which they have been both trained and certified to perform, including, but not limited to: (1) Administration of parenteral injections of diuretics, anticonvulsants, hypertonic glucose, antihistamines, bronchodilators, emetics, narcotic antagonists, and others, and administration of opioid antagonists; (2) Cardioversion; and (3) Endotracheal suction.

(a) Upon certification by the department, paramedics may perform any service that a cardiac technician is permitted to perform. In addition, upon the order of a duly licensed physician and subject to the conditions set forth in paragraph (2) of subsection (a) of Code Section 31-11-55 , paramedics may perform any other procedures which they have been both trained and certified to perform, including, but not limited to:

(1) Administration of parenteral injections of diuretics, anticonvulsants, hypertonic glucose, antihistamines, bronchodilators, emetics, narcotic antagonists, and others, and administration of opioid antagonists;

(1) Administration of parenteral injections of diuretics, anticonvulsants, hypertonic glucose, antihistamines, bronchodilators, emetics, narcotic antagonists, and others, and administration of opioid antagonists;

(2) Cardioversion; and

(2) Cardioversion; and

(3) Endotracheal suction.

(3) Endotracheal suction.

(b) While in training preparatory to becoming certified, paramedic trainees may perform any of the functions specified in this Code section under the direct supervision of a duly licensed physician, a registered nurse, or an approved paramedic clinical preceptor.

(b) While in training preparatory to becoming certified, paramedic trainees may perform any of the functions specified in this Code section under the direct supervision of a duly licensed physician, a registered nurse, or an approved paramedic clinical preceptor.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-381 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-381
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-381
Status: in_force

As used in this article, the term:

(1) “ Applicant ” means an individual applying to provide personal care services to an elderly person in a residence or location not licensed by the department.

(1) “ Applicant ” means an individual applying to provide personal care services to an elderly person in a residence or location not licensed by the department.

(2) “ Criminal background check ” means a search of the criminal records maintained by Georgia Crime Information Center and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to determine whether an applicant or employee has a criminal record.

(2) “ Criminal background check ” means a search of the criminal records maintained by Georgia Crime Information Center and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to determine whether an applicant or employee has a criminal record.

(3) “ Elderly person ” means an individual who is 65 years of age or older.

(3) “ Elderly person ” means an individual who is 65 years of age or older.

(4) “ Employee ” means any individual who is providing personal care services to an elderly person in a residence or location not licensed by the department.

(4) “ Employee ” means any individual who is providing personal care services to an elderly person in a residence or location not licensed by the department.

(5) “ Employer ” means an individual who is considering an applicant or has hired an employee for a family member or ward.

(5) “ Employer ” means an individual who is considering an applicant or has hired an employee for a family member or ward.

(6) “ Family member ” means an individual with a close familial relationship, including, but not limited to, a spouse, parent, sibling, or grandparent.

(6) “ Family member ” means an individual with a close familial relationship, including, but not limited to, a spouse, parent, sibling, or grandparent.

(7) “ Personal care services ” means home care, health care, companionship, or transportation and includes, but is not limited to, providing assistance with bathing, eating, dressing, walking, shopping, fixing meals, and housework.

(7) “ Personal care services ” means home care, health care, companionship, or transportation and includes, but is not limited to, providing assistance with bathing, eating, dressing, walking, shopping, fixing meals, and housework.

(8) “ Registry check ” means a review of the nurse aide registry provided for in Code Section 31-2-14 , the state sexual offender registry, and the List of Excluded Individuals and Entities as authorized in Sections 1128 and 1156 of the federal Social Security Act, as it existed on February 1, 2018, or any other registry useful for the administration of this article as specified by rules of the department.

(8) “ Registry check ” means a review of the nurse aide registry provided for in Code Section 31-2-14 , the state sexual offender registry, and the List of Excluded Individuals and Entities as authorized in Sections 1128 and 1156 of the federal Social Security Act, as it existed on February 1, 2018, or any other registry useful for the administration of this article as specified by rules of the department.

(9) “ Ward ” means an elder person for whom a guardian has been appointed pursuant to Title 29.

(9) “ Ward ” means an elder person for whom a guardian has been appointed pursuant to Title 29.
O.C.G.A. § 31-6-46 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-6-46
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-6-46
Status: in_force

The department shall prepare and submit an annual report to the board and to the Health and Human Services Committee of the Senate and the Health and Human Services Committee of the House of Representatives about its operations and decisions for the preceding 12 month period, not later than 30 days prior to each convening of the General Assembly in regular session. Either committee may request any additional reports or information, including decisions, from the department at any time, including a period in which the General Assembly is not in regular session. The annual report shall include information and updates relating to the state health plan and the certificate of need program and an annual analysis of proactive and prospective approaches to need methodologies and access to health care services. The annual report shall include information for Georgia's congressional delegation which highlights issues regarding federal laws and regulations influencing Medicaid and medicare, insurance and related tax laws, and long-term health care.
O.C.G.A. § 31-12a-12 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 12A / Section 31-12a-12
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-12A-12
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be cumulative to and shall not prohibit the enactment of any other general or local laws, rules, and regulations of state or local governing authorities or local ordinances prohibiting smoking which are more restrictive than this chapter or are not in direct conflict with this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 31-24-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 24 / Section 31-24-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-24-1
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as “The Blood Labeling Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-45a-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 45A / Section 31-45a-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-45A-1
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as “Izzy's Law.”
O.C.G.A. § 31-38-7 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 38 / Section 31-38-7
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-38-7
Status: in_force

(a) The tanning facility owner or operator shall provide protective goggles to each consumer for use during any use of tanning equipment.

(a) The tanning facility owner or operator shall provide protective goggles to each consumer for use during any use of tanning equipment.

(b) The protective goggles required in subsection (a) of this Code section shall meet the requirements of 21 CFR 1040.20(c)(5) .

(b) The protective goggles required in subsection (a) of this Code section shall meet the requirements of 21 CFR 1040.20(c)(5) .

(c) Tanning facility operators shall ensure that consumers wear the protective goggles required by this Code section.

(c) Tanning facility operators shall ensure that consumers wear the protective goggles required by this Code section.

(d) The tanning facility owner or operator shall ensure that the protective goggles required by this Code section are properly sanitized before each use and shall not rely upon exposure to the ultraviolet radiation produced by the tanning equipment itself to provide such sanitizing.

(d) The tanning facility owner or operator shall ensure that the protective goggles required by this Code section are properly sanitized before each use and shall not rely upon exposure to the ultraviolet radiation produced by the tanning equipment itself to provide such sanitizing.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-153 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-153
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-153
Status: in_force

The department shall promulgate regulations which define standards for the care, treatment, health, safety, welfare, and comfort of patients served by home health agencies and for the maintenance and operation of home health agencies which will promote safe and adequate care and treatment of the patients. These regulations shall be no less stringent than those required for participation of home health agencies in the Title XVIII medicare program and shall include, but not be limited to, a provision requiring the agency to have policies established by a professional group which includes at least one physician and one registered nurse and appropriate representation from other professional disciplines; provisions governing the services the agency provides; provisions for the supervision of services by a physician or registered nurse, as appropriate, and maintenance of clinical records on all patients, including a plan of treatment prescribed by a physician. The department is authorized to issue, deny, suspend, or revoke licenses in accordance with regulations promulgated pursuant to this Code section. Such regulations shall also include hearing procedures related to denial, suspension, or revocation of licenses.
O.C.G.A. § 31-52-8 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 52 / Section 31-52-8
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-52-8
Status: in_force

The Georgia Composite Medical Board shall not revoke, suspend, sanction, fail to renew, or take any other action against a physician's license solely based on such physician's recommendation, prescription, or treatment of an eligible patient with an investigational drug, biological product, or device pursuant to this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 31-8-33 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-8-33
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-8-33
Status: in_force

There is created the Nonresident Indigent Health Care Fund for the purpose of making payments therefrom to hospitals to reimburse such hospitals for the cost of care of nonresident indigent patients. Such fund shall be made up of appropriations made thereto by the General Assembly, as provided in this article.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-73 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-73
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-73
Status: in_force

(a) Any other provision of this article to the contrary notwithstanding, there is created in and for each county of this state having a population of 100,000 or more according to the United States decennial census of 1970 or any future such census a public body corporate and politic to be known as the “_____ Hospital Authority.” Each such hospital authority shall be a separate entity and in addition to the hospital authority of each county of this state created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-72 .

(a) Any other provision of this article to the contrary notwithstanding, there is created in and for each county of this state having a population of 100,000 or more according to the United States decennial census of 1970 or any future such census a public body corporate and politic to be known as the “_____ Hospital Authority.” Each such hospital authority shall be a separate entity and in addition to the hospital authority of each county of this state created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-72 .

(b) Each such additional hospital authority shall consist of a board of not less than five nor more than nine members to be appointed by the governing body of each such county for staggered terms, as specified by resolution of the governing body. No hospital authority created under this Code section shall transact any business or exercise any powers under this Code section until the governing body of each such county declares by proper resolution that there is a need for an additional hospital authority to function within such county, which resolution shall also determine and declare that such hospital authority is being created pursuant to this Code section and shall adopt a designation for the hospital authority so as to reflect that it is a separate and distinct entity from the hospital authority created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-72 . A copy of such resolution shall be filed with the department. Copies of any resolutions adopted by the governing body of the county for the purpose of filling vacancies in the membership of the hospital authority or for making any changes in membership shall also be filed with the department.

(b) Each such additional hospital authority shall consist of a board of not less than five nor more than nine members to be appointed by the governing body of each such county for staggered terms, as specified by resolution of the governing body. No hospital authority created under this Code section shall transact any business or exercise any powers under this Code section until the governing body of each such county declares by proper resolution that there is a need for an additional hospital authority to function within such county, which resolution shall also determine and declare that such hospital authority is being created pursuant to this Code section and shall adopt a designation for the hospital authority so as to reflect that it is a separate and distinct entity from the hospital authority created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-72 . A copy of such resolution shall be filed with the department. Copies of any resolutions adopted by the governing body of the county for the purpose of filling vacancies in the membership of the hospital authority or for making any changes in membership shall also be filed with the department.

(c) Appointments to fill vacancies on the board of any such hospital authority shall be made as provided in Code Section 31-7-72 .

(c) Appointments to fill vacancies on the board of any such hospital authority shall be made as provided in Code Section 31-7-72 .

(d) All provisions of this article, including, but not limited to, the rights, powers, duties, obligations, and exemptions from taxation provided thereby for hospital authorities shall apply to the additional hospital authorities created pursuant to this Code section and the hospital authorities so created shall, in all respects, to the extent applicable for the purposes of this chapter, be treated as though they had been created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-72 .

(d) All provisions of this article, including, but not limited to, the rights, powers, duties, obligations, and exemptions from taxation provided thereby for hospital authorities shall apply to the additional hospital authorities created pursuant to this Code section and the hospital authorities so created shall, in all respects, to the extent applicable for the purposes of this chapter, be treated as though they had been created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-72 .

(e) It is declared that this Code section shall be cumulative of and supplemental to Code Section 31-7-72 and not in lieu thereof. It is expressly provided that nothing contained in this Code section shall invalidate or abrogate any of the actions or obligations of existing hospital authorities created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-72 and further that nothing contained in this Code section shall be construed as adversely affecting the rights and interests of the holders or owners of any bonds, certificates, or obligations now or hereafter issued by such existing hospital authorities.

(e) It is declared that this Code section shall be cumulative of and supplemental to Code Section 31-7-72 and not in lieu thereof. It is expressly provided that nothing contained in this Code section shall invalidate or abrogate any of the actions or obligations of existing hospital authorities created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-72 and further that nothing contained in this Code section shall be construed as adversely affecting the rights and interests of the holders or owners of any bonds, certificates, or obligations now or hereafter issued by such existing hospital authorities.
O.C.G.A. § 31-44-8 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 44 / Section 31-44-8
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-44-8
Status: in_force

An end stage renal disease facility may not employ or have working in that facility as a dialysis or reuse technician anyone other than an individual trained and competent pursuant to the rules promulgated under this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 31-41-6 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 41 / Section 31-41-6
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-41-6
Status: in_force

(a) The department shall make available to all persons licensed or certified under this chapter current federal regulations affecting such licensees or certified persons.

(a) The department shall make available to all persons licensed or certified under this chapter current federal regulations affecting such licensees or certified persons.

(b) The department is authorized to charge an application fee, a license fee, a license renewal fee, or a similar fee and the amount of such fees shall be established by the Board of Natural Resources. Each fee so established shall be reasonable and shall be determined in such a manner that the total of the fees charged shall approximate the total of the direct and the indirect costs to the state of the operation of the licensing program. Fees may be refunded for good cause as determined by the department.

(b) The department is authorized to charge an application fee, a license fee, a license renewal fee, or a similar fee and the amount of such fees shall be established by the Board of Natural Resources. Each fee so established shall be reasonable and shall be determined in such a manner that the total of the fees charged shall approximate the total of the direct and the indirect costs to the state of the operation of the licensing program. Fees may be refunded for good cause as determined by the department.

(c) The department is authorized to issue a corrective order to any person in violation of this chapter or any regulation promulgated pursuant thereto. The order shall specify the provisions of this chapter or any regulation alleged to have been violated and shall order necessary corrective action be taken within a reasonable time to be prescribed in such order.

(c) The department is authorized to issue a corrective order to any person in violation of this chapter or any regulation promulgated pursuant thereto. The order shall specify the provisions of this chapter or any regulation alleged to have been violated and shall order necessary corrective action be taken within a reasonable time to be prescribed in such order.

(d) The department is authorized to revoke or suspend any license, certification, approval, or accreditation issued hereunder, in accordance with regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter.

(d) The department is authorized to revoke or suspend any license, certification, approval, or accreditation issued hereunder, in accordance with regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter.

(e) It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in training or lead-based paint activities regulated under this chapter except in such a manner as to conform to and comply with this chapter and all applicable regulations and orders established under this chapter.

(e) It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in training or lead-based paint activities regulated under this chapter except in such a manner as to conform to and comply with this chapter and all applicable regulations and orders established under this chapter.

(f) Any person violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(f) Any person violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 31-6-41 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-6-41
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-6-41
Status: in_force

(a) A certificate of need shall be valid only for the defined scope, location, cost, service area, and person named in an application, as it may be amended, and as such scope, location, service area, cost, and person are approved by the department, unless such certificate of need owned by an existing health care facility is transferred to a person who acquires such existing facility. In such case, the certificate of need shall be valid for the person who acquires such a facility and for the scope, location, cost, and service area approved by the department. However, in reviewing an application to relocate all or a portion of an existing skilled nursing facility, intermediate care facility, or intermingled nursing facility, the department may allow such facility to divide into two or more such facilities if the department determines that the proposed division is financially feasible and would be consistent with quality patient care.

(a) A certificate of need shall be valid only for the defined scope, location, cost, service area, and person named in an application, as it may be amended, and as such scope, location, service area, cost, and person are approved by the department, unless such certificate of need owned by an existing health care facility is transferred to a person who acquires such existing facility. In such case, the certificate of need shall be valid for the person who acquires such a facility and for the scope, location, cost, and service area approved by the department. However, in reviewing an application to relocate all or a portion of an existing skilled nursing facility, intermediate care facility, or intermingled nursing facility, the department may allow such facility to divide into two or more such facilities if the department determines that the proposed division is financially feasible and would be consistent with quality patient care.

(b) A certificate of need shall be valid and effective for a period of 12 months after it is issued, or such greater period of time as may be specified by the department at the time the certificate of need is issued. Within the effective period after the grant of a certificate of need, the applicant of a proposed project shall fulfill reasonable performance and scheduling requirements specified by the department, by rule, to assure reasonable progress toward timely completion of a project.

(b) A certificate of need shall be valid and effective for a period of 12 months after it is issued, or such greater period of time as may be specified by the department at the time the certificate of need is issued. Within the effective period after the grant of a certificate of need, the applicant of a proposed project shall fulfill reasonable performance and scheduling requirements specified by the department, by rule, to assure reasonable progress toward timely completion of a project.

(c) By rule, the department may provide for extension of the effective period of a certificate of need when an applicant, by petition, makes a good faith showing that the conditions to be specified according to subsection (b) of this Code section will be performed within the extended period and that the reasons for the extension are beyond the control of the applicant.

(c) By rule, the department may provide for extension of the effective period of a certificate of need when an applicant, by petition, makes a good faith showing that the conditions to be specified according to subsection (b) of this Code section will be performed within the extended period and that the reasons for the extension are beyond the control of the applicant.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-50 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-50
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-50
Status: in_force

The state is authorized to make grants to any county, municipality, or any combination thereof or to any hospital authority to assist in the construction and modernization of publicly owned and publicly operated medical facilities, auxiliary medical facilities, and mental health centers as defined in Code Section 31-7-51 . The amount of the grant shall be determined in accordance with Code Sections 31-7-52 and 31-7-53 .
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-191 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-191
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-191
Status: in_force

As used in this article, the term:

(1) “ Commissioner ” means the commissioner of community health.

(1) “ Commissioner ” means the commissioner of community health.

(2) “ Department ” means the Department of Community Health.

(2) “ Department ” means the Department of Community Health.

(3) “ Georgia Palliative Care and Quality of Life Advisory Council ” or “ council ” means the advisory council created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-192 .

(3) “ Georgia Palliative Care and Quality of Life Advisory Council ” or “ council ” means the advisory council created pursuant to Code Section 31-7-192 .

(4) “ Health care facility ” means hospitals; other special care units, including but not limited to podiatric facilities; skilled nursing facilities; intermediate care facilities; assisted living communities; personal care homes; ambulatory surgical or obstetrical facilities; health maintenance organizations; home health agencies; and diagnostic, treatment, or rehabilitation centers.

(4) “ Health care facility ” means hospitals; other special care units, including but not limited to podiatric facilities; skilled nursing facilities; intermediate care facilities; assisted living communities; personal care homes; ambulatory surgical or obstetrical facilities; health maintenance organizations; home health agencies; and diagnostic, treatment, or rehabilitation centers.

(5) “ Palliative care ” means those interventions which are intended to alleviate suffering and to achieve relief from, reduction of, or elimination of pain and of other physical, emotional, social, or spiritual symptoms of distress to achieve the best quality of life for the patients and their families.

(5) “ Palliative care ” means those interventions which are intended to alleviate suffering and to achieve relief from, reduction of, or elimination of pain and of other physical, emotional, social, or spiritual symptoms of distress to achieve the best quality of life for the patients and their families.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-152 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-152
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-152
Status: in_force

Any person, organization, or agency desiring to operate a home health agency shall file with the department an application on a form prescribed, prepared, and furnished by the department. The application shall contain such information as the department may require which is reasonably related to the department's licensure purpose and function.
O.C.G.A. § 31-53-47 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 53 / Section 31-53-47
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-53-47
Status: in_force

(a) Beginning in January, 2023, and every month thereafter, all submitting entities shall submit claims data for state residents to the GAPCD in accordance with this article and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to this article.

(a) Beginning in January, 2023, and every month thereafter, all submitting entities shall submit claims data for state residents to the GAPCD in accordance with this article and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to this article.

(b) Submitting entities shall submit 95 percent of data within 60 days from the day that the adjudicated claims were paid, and 100 percent of data within 180 days from the day adjudicated claims were sent for payment. The administrator shall establish a Data Submission Guide to ensure uniformity of data, which may be based on currently existing data standards, such as the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) and ASC X12 Post Adjudicated Claims Data Reporting (PACDR).

(b) Submitting entities shall submit 95 percent of data within 60 days from the day that the adjudicated claims were paid, and 100 percent of data within 180 days from the day adjudicated claims were sent for payment. The administrator shall establish a Data Submission Guide to ensure uniformity of data, which may be based on currently existing data standards, such as the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) and ASC X12 Post Adjudicated Claims Data Reporting (PACDR).

(c) Self-funded employer sponsored plans may voluntarily submit monthly claims data to the GAPCD when the employer has opted in writing to the submission of the data. The carrier or administrator shall notify the employer of the employer's option to authorize the submission of the data.

(c) Self-funded employer sponsored plans may voluntarily submit monthly claims data to the GAPCD when the employer has opted in writing to the submission of the data. The carrier or administrator shall notify the employer of the employer's option to authorize the submission of the data.

(d) Direct personal identifiers contained in claim data submitted pursuant to this article shall not be considered a public record and shall not be subject to Article 4 of Chapter 18 of Title 50, relating to open records.

(d) Direct personal identifiers contained in claim data submitted pursuant to this article shall not be considered a public record and shall not be subject to Article 4 of Chapter 18 of Title 50, relating to open records.
O.C.G.A. § 31-27-6 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 27 / Section 31-27-6
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-27-6
Status: in_force

The person promoting or holding a mass gathering shall be assessed at the rate of $5.00 for each person in attendance beyond the number specified in the application for such mass gathering. Any such assessment shall be remitted to the state treasury and credited to the general fund.
O.C.G.A. § 31-17a-3 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 17A / Section 31-17a-3
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-17A-3
Status: in_force

(a) If a person refuses to consent to an HIV test, as provided in Code Section 31-17A-2 , the Department of Public Health may file a civil complaint with the superior court of the county of the residence of the person refusing the test. The complaint shall allege with specificity the basis for the allegations which the department believes support the conclusion that the person is infected with HIV, as well as the scope, nature, and threat to the public health created thereby, and the proposed plan to be adopted to protect the public health in the event the court orders the administration of the HIV test and the person is found to be an HIV infected person. The person against whom the complaint is filed shall be represented by counsel, and, in the event the person against whom the complaint is filed cannot afford counsel, counsel shall be appointed by the court.

(a) If a person refuses to consent to an HIV test, as provided in Code Section 31-17A-2 , the Department of Public Health may file a civil complaint with the superior court of the county of the residence of the person refusing the test. The complaint shall allege with specificity the basis for the allegations which the department believes support the conclusion that the person is infected with HIV, as well as the scope, nature, and threat to the public health created thereby, and the proposed plan to be adopted to protect the public health in the event the court orders the administration of the HIV test and the person is found to be an HIV infected person. The person against whom the complaint is filed shall be represented by counsel, and, in the event the person against whom the complaint is filed cannot afford counsel, counsel shall be appointed by the court.

(b) The superior court shall hear the complaint on an expedited basis without a jury. All proceedings before the court shall be sealed.

(b) The superior court shall hear the complaint on an expedited basis without a jury. All proceedings before the court shall be sealed.

(c) If after consideration of the evidence, the court finds clear and convincing evidence that the person is reasonably likely to be infected with HIV and that there is a compelling need to protect the public health, the court may order the person to submit to an HIV test, shall retain jurisdiction to render such orders as are appropriate to effectuate that order, and, in the event the person so tested is determined to be infected with HIV, to require such procedures to protect the public health consistent with the least restrictive alternative which is available within the limits of state funds specifically appropriated therefor.

(c) If after consideration of the evidence, the court finds clear and convincing evidence that the person is reasonably likely to be infected with HIV and that there is a compelling need to protect the public health, the court may order the person to submit to an HIV test, shall retain jurisdiction to render such orders as are appropriate to effectuate that order, and, in the event the person so tested is determined to be infected with HIV, to require such procedures to protect the public health consistent with the least restrictive alternative which is available within the limits of state funds specifically appropriated therefor.
O.C.G.A. § 31-19-4 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-19-4
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-19-4
Status: in_force

It shall be the duty of any person bitten by any animal reasonably suspected of being rabid immediately to notify the appropriate county board of health. It shall be the duty of the owner, custodian, or person having possession and knowledge of any animal which has bitten any person or animal or of any animal which exhibits any signs of rabies to notify the appropriate county board of health and to confine such animal in accordance with rules and regulations of the county board of health.
O.C.G.A. § 31-5-1 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-5-1
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-5-1
Status: in_force

All rules and regulations of the Department of Public Health and any county board of health shall be adopted after due notice to and hearing by persons and parties affected thereby; and such rules and regulations shall be maintained in a book kept for that purpose, orderly arranged and indexed and subject to inspection by the public during regular business hours. The agency adopting such rules and regulations shall make copies thereof available for distribution to persons interested in or affected thereby. Such agencies are also authorized to provide for the mimeographing, printing, or other reproduction of their regulations and the distribution thereof. No rule or regulation shall become effective as law until 30 days after its adoption, except in cases of emergencies constituting an imminent threat to the public, in which event such rules or regulations shall become effective upon adoption; but, in all such cases, the agency adopting same shall as a part thereof state the conditions found by it to justify such immediate effectiveness. Where deemed desirable by the agency, hearing and notice as provided in Code Section 31-5-2 may be conducted by it prior to adoption of any rule or regulation.
O.C.G.A. § 31-17-4-2 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-17-4-2
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-17-4.2
Status: in_force

(a) This Code section shall be known and may be cited as the “Georgia HIV/Syphilis Pregnancy Screening Act of 2015.”

(a) This Code section shall be known and may be cited as the “Georgia HIV/Syphilis Pregnancy Screening Act of 2015.”

(b) Except in cases where the pregnant woman refuses the testing, a pregnant woman shall be tested for HIV and syphilis: (1) At the pregnant woman's first prenatal visit; (2) When she is at 28-32 weeks' gestation; and (3) At delivery. Each such test shall be conducted by the physician or other healthcare provider who is providing prenatal care for such pregnant woman at each such point in the woman's pregnancy.

(b) Except in cases where the pregnant woman refuses the testing, a pregnant woman shall be tested for HIV and syphilis:

(1) At the pregnant woman's first prenatal visit;

(1) At the pregnant woman's first prenatal visit;

(2) When she is at 28-32 weeks' gestation; and

(2) When she is at 28-32 weeks' gestation; and

(3) At delivery.

(3) At delivery.

Each such test shall be conducted by the physician or other healthcare provider who is providing prenatal care for such pregnant woman at each such point in the woman's pregnancy.

(c) If the woman tests positive for HIV or syphilis, counseling services provided by the Department of Public Health shall be made available to her and she shall be referred to appropriate medical care providers for herself and her child.

(c) If the woman tests positive for HIV or syphilis, counseling services provided by the Department of Public Health shall be made available to her and she shall be referred to appropriate medical care providers for herself and her child.

(d) If for any reason the pregnant woman is not tested for HIV and syphilis, that fact shall be recorded in the patient's records, which, if based upon the refusal of the patient, shall relieve the physician or other healthcare provider of any other responsibility under this Code section.

(d) If for any reason the pregnant woman is not tested for HIV and syphilis, that fact shall be recorded in the patient's records, which, if based upon the refusal of the patient, shall relieve the physician or other healthcare provider of any other responsibility under this Code section.

(e) The Department of Public Health shall be authorized to promulgate rules and regulations for the purpose of administering the requirements under this Code section.

(e) The Department of Public Health shall be authorized to promulgate rules and regulations for the purpose of administering the requirements under this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 31-7-93 — GA Code / Title 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-7-93
Georgia Code Title 31. Health § 31-7-93
Status: in_force

In the event any hospital authority shall fail or refuse to provide for an annual audit and have such audit prepared and filed as set forth in Code Sections 31-7-91 and 31-7-92 , any taxpayer of any participating unit of such authority or the governing authority of such unit may petition the superior court of the county wherein the authority operates a hospital to require the authority to have such audit prepared and filed as provided by the above Code sections. The judge of such court shall set a time for the hearing on such petition and after notice to the authority shall hear and determine the petition. If it is determined that the authority has failed to comply with the requirements for the preparation and filing of the audit, the judge shall pass such orders as are necessary to effectuate compliance with such requirements. In the event the authority fails to have an audit prepared and filed as required by court order, the members of the authority shall be subject to contempt proceedings by the court as provided by law.