Increasing access to quality health care in Iowa is a priority. Sadly, rural hospitals suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic as many could not offer out-patient procedures, which resulted in a major financial loss and forced some patients to go without care. Many rural hospitals also closed maternity wards and more mental health care providers are needed. To increase access to health care policymakers, need to consider repealing obsolete Certificate of Need (CON) laws, which restrict access and competition.
The purpose of a CON law is to regulate (limit) health care supply unless a need is determined by a state government agency or board. When CON laws were introduced in the 1970’s, it was hoped that they would be able to control the cost of health care by preventing health care facilities from unnecessary and potentially costly expansions. In the 38 states and the District of Columbia who still have CON laws on the books, this essentially means health care facilities must obtain government approval to build, expand, acquire new equipment, or offer additional services.
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