The California Department of Health has issued an All Facilities Letter recalling the December 13, 1985 letter that authorized blanket program flexibility for certain regulations. This recall affects general acute care hospitals, acute psychiatric hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and intermediate care facilities. The regulations in question include bacteriological testing of ice machines, disposal of needles and syringes, pathological review of all surgically removed tissue, disposable humidifiers, training bed, and closure of patient records. Facilities must now maintain compliance with the licensing requirements. However, alternate concepts, methods, procedures, techniques, equipment, and personnel qualifications are allowed with prior written approval from the department. Facilities seeking program flexibility may submit a written request and substantiating evidence to the local California Department of Public Health Licensing and Certification district office.

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