Primary Care Clinic
Frequently Asked Questions​

Application Processing​

1. What is the application review process for an Initial Primary Care Clinic (PCC) license?

All Facilities Letter (AFL) 25-19​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/AFL-25-19.aspx) notifies facilities of a change to the application review process for all applications submitted to the Centralized Applications Branch (CAB). Effective July 1, 2025, all licensing applications and written notifications will require an application fee, and incomplete applications will be denied. Below is an overview of the application process for an Initial PCC license application:

When CAB receives an application and it is assigned to an analyst, the analyst will conduct a prescreen review. CAB will identify if all required forms/documents/fees are received:

• CAB will issue a one-time prescreen letter requesting any missing forms, documents, and the required application fee, with a deadline of 21-calendar days.
• If CAB does not receive the requested forms, documents and/or application fee within 21-calendar days of the date of the letter, the application will be denied, and you will be required to resubmit your application.

If all required forms, documents and application fee are received, the analyst will conduct a full review of the application:

• Each form/document is reviewed for completion and accuracy, ensuring all information has been captured and to determine whether the facility meets state and federal requirements.
• Database checks and compliance histories are conducted to ensure the applicant is of reputable and responsible character.
• If any deficiencies have been identified, a correction letter is issued to the Application Contact, with a deadline of 60-calendar days.
• CAB will continue to process the application if additional information and/or corrections are received timely.
• If CAB does not receive the requested information and/or corrections within 60-calendar days of the date of the letter, the application will be denied.
  

Once CAB receives the corrections and completes review, the application will be sent to the district office (DO), who will contact the provider to schedule a survey. Once the survey has been completed and approved, CAB will be notified to issue an electronic State license. 

2. What is the application review process for an Initial PCC – Affiliate license?

Below is an overview of the application process for an Initial PCC – Affiliate license application:

When CAB receives an application and it is assigned to an analyst, the analyst will conduct a full review of the application:

• CAB will identify if all required forms/documents are received, if each form/document is complete and accurate, and determine whether the clinic meets state and federal requirements.
• Database checks and compliance histories are conducted to ensure applicant is of reputable and responsible character.
• If any missing forms/documents and/or deficiencies have been identified, a correction letter is issued to the Application Contact, with a deadline of 60-calendar days of the date of the letter. CAB will also request the application fee.
• CAB will continue to process the application if additional information and/or corrections are received timely.
• If CAB does not receive the requested forms, documents, corrections, and/or application fee within 60-calendar days of the date of the letter, the application will be denied, and you will be required to resubmit your application.

Once the requested forms, documents, and corrections are received and the application fee is cleared, CAB will approve the application and issue the electronic State license.

No licensing survey is required for the issuance of the electronic State license; however, the DO may conduct a licensing survey at any time after the receipt of the completed application.

3. How can I ensure that my Initial application is processed timely?

Applications that are missing forms, documents, and/or the application fee will be denied. CAB will only process completed applications. Please ensure the following are completed:

• All required forms and documents are submitted.
• All applicable fields on each form/document are completed. 
• Submit the application fee when notified by CAB to avoid processing delays. 

4. How can I check the status of my application? 

When the application is assigned to an analyst, you will be able to contact the analyst directly. If you have not received a response, visit the Contact Us​ page (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/CAB-Contact-Page.aspx​) for more information on the appropriate inbox for questions and inquiries regarding submitted PCC initial, change of ownership (CHOW) and report of change (ROC) applications.

5. Can I contact our local DO to find out the status of an onsite survey?

Yes, providers may contact their local DO to inquire the status of a pending survey. Please reference your application ID and your facility license number (if applicable) when contacting your local DO​​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/DistrictOffices.aspx​).

6. Do I mail a completed application to CAB, or email an electronic copy?

Please submit completed application packets to the CAB address listed below:​​

California Department of Public Health

Center for Health Care Quality

Centralized Applications Branch

P.O. Box 997377, MS 3207

Sacramento, CA 95899​

Electronic application submissions will not be accepted. Do not send any completed application packets, forms, or supporting documents to the local DO.

7. Do I need to submit application documents with original signatures?

CAB can accept documents submitted through mail with original signatures, PDF electronic signatures in lieu of original signatures, and/or copies of original signatures that are submitted as PDFs.

8. Can PCCs submit an application before construction is complete?

CAB does not accept applications where construction has not been finalized and a certificate of occupancy cannot be provided. Pursuant to AFL 25-19, incomplete applications will be denied. CAB will require a permanent certificate of occupancy (COO) to verify the facility meets building code requirements.

9. Can I begin seeing patients once CAB approves my Initial application?

No, you cannot begin seeing patients until your local DO conducts and completes their licensing survey, and approves your license. PCC – Affiliates are the exception, pursuant to HSC § 1218.1(d). Once CAB completes application review for an Initial PCC-Affiliate license, the state license will be issued, and the provider can begin seeing patients. 

10. What if CAB denies my application (Initial, Change of Ownership, Report of Change)?

Local DOs will be notified of application and notification approvals and denials. Applicants may submit an appeal regarding a denied application and complete the appeal process, or applicants may resubmit another application packet.

Forms/Documents

11. Can I submit aged HS 215As with my application submissions?

The signature and date of the HS 215A form should be within the last three months and must contain the signature of the individual whom the form is regarding. 

12. Why does CAB require a CDPH 270 be signed by a California licensed architect or local building authority?

Pursuant to HSC § 1226(c), the construction or alteration of buildings shall be reviewed by the city or county, and the latest edition of the California Building Standards Code shall be applied in conducting these plan review responsibilities. The space occupying the facility needs to be reviewed.

13. Does the CDPH 270 need to cover the whole two-complex buildings, or only the space that we will occupy as our PCC?

The CDPH 270 must cover the space that the PCC will occupy.

14. What can I do if the fire inspector will only accept a fire safety inspection request from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH)?

A fire safety inspection request (STD 850) should be obtained prior to submitting an application or change request. You may provide a pre-populated STD 850​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/CDPH%20Document%20Library/STD%20850%20Prepopulated.pdf) and cover letter​​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/CDPH%20Document%20Library/STD850.pdf​) to your local fire authority to initiate the fire safety inspection request. If the fire inspector will only accept fire safety requests from CDPH, CAB can submit the STD 850 on behalf of the provider. However, the provider must follow up with the status of the inspection with the local fire authority. To assist the analyst in initiating the request, provide the contact information for both the fire inspector and the facility representative that will coordinate with the local fire authority. Licensure will not be granted until the facility passes fire inspection.

15. Question 7 on the HS 200 pertains to bed capacity. If submitting an Initial application, do I disclose the number of exam rooms as bed capacity?

No, the bed capacity question only pertains to inpatient facilities. 

Application Fees

16. Do all PCC application submissions to CAB require a fee?

Yes, all licensing applications and written notifications (Initial, Change of Ownership, and Report of Change) will require an application fee, pursuant to HSC § 1266.

17. Will the fee be refunded if my application is denied?

No, application fees will not be refunded to the applicant if the application is denied by either CAB or your local DO, pursuant to Title 22 California Code of Regulations (CCR) § 75023.

18. Am I required to pay additional application fees if CAB identifies additional reportable changes during review of an application submission?

Yes, if CAB identifies additional reportable changes during application review, the applicant will be notified to submit the appropriate application submission to capture the reportable change and CAB will request an application fee, pursuant to HSC § 1266. CAB will request an application and application fee for every reportable change identified during review.

Licensing

19. What does the license effective date represent?

The effective date represents the date of Initial licensure or the date a change was made to the license. This date is located on the top right corner, above the license expiration date. Pursuant to HSC § 1215, a license shall expire 12 months from the date of its issuance. ​

20. How can I obtain a duplicate of my license?

Contact our CAB Provider Licensing Unit at CHCQCABLicensing@cdph.ca.gov​ for a duplicate copy of your license. 

21. I have not received the second provisional license. How do I inquire about receiving my provisional or permanent license?

All clinics, with the exception of PCC – Affiliate clinics, will receive two provisional licenses, pursuant to HSC § 1219. The local DO is responsible for approving the renewed provisional licensees and can be contacted using the Field Operations Branch – District Offices​ directory​​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/DistrictOffices.aspx​). Upon DO approval, the CAB Provider Licensing Unit is responsible for issuing the renewed provisional licenses and be contacted at CHCQCABLicensing@cdph.ca.gov.

22. Do PCC – Affiliates receive a provisional or permanent license? 

PCC – Affiliates will receive a permanent license upon completed CAB review of the Initial affiliate application and clearance of the application fee. 

23. What are the licensure requirements for an ambulatory infusion center?

CDPH does not license ambulatory infusion centers. A PCC can provide infusion services if the clinic is organized, staffed, and equipped to do so, pursuant to 22 CCR § 75026.

24. Is an urgent care facility required to be licensed?

An urgent care facility is required to be licensed:

• If the urgent care facility is an outpatient service of a General Acute Care Hospital (GACH).
• If the urgent care facility is a non-profit, tax-exempt PCC. 
• The urgent care facility may be exempt from licensure if they meet criteria in HSC § 1206.

25. What is the process for a renewal license?

Pursuant to HSC § 1215, a license shall expire 12-months from the date of its issuance. Please visit the Health Care Facilities License Renewals​ page  (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/ApplyForLicensure-Renewals.aspx)​ for more information and instructions on the license renewal process.

26. Can you explain the difference between the expiration date vs. the provisional dates listed on the CHOW license?

The expiration date on the top right corner of the license is the license’s annual expiration date, as used by the Fiscal Services Branch (FSB) when generating the license renewal invoice/LRA. ​

The dates at the bottom of the license are the “provisional/probationary” dates for which the new Licensee is approved to operate the facility. The “provisional/probationary” dates will be removed, once permanent licensure is approved and issued. 

Certification

27. How can I verify if my clinic is actively enrolled with Medi-Cal? 

PCC providers may check their certification status by going to the Medi-Cal open Data Portal at Open Data Portal - Profile of Enrolled Medi-Cal Fee-for-Service (FFS) Providers website​ (https://data.chhs.ca.gov/dataset/profile-of-enrolled-medi-cal-fee-for-service-ffs-providers​). 

28. How do I resolve billing issues with Medi-Cal?

Please contact the Medi-Cal Provider Service Center at 1-800-541-5555 for any Medi-Cal billing questions or concerns. For more information, visit DHCS’ Payment and Billing Questions page​​ (https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/provgovpart/Pages/BillingQuestions.aspx).

29. What is the process after CAB completes review of an application packet?

Once CAB completes review of an application requiring Medi-Cal updates, the application is forwarded to the DO. The DO completes review of the certification information and may conduct a survey. The DO sends their approval recommendation to the CAB Provider Certification Unit (PCU), who then notifies DHCS’ PED to update DHCS’ Medi-Cal billing database. To request status updates for certification applications, after an application packet has been approved, please contact your local DO 

​(https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/DistrictOffices.aspx) or PCU at PCU@cdph.ca.gov​. 

Affiliate Clinics

30. What type of application qualifies for the 30-day timeline review pursuant to HSC § 1218.1(d)?

A PCC – Affiliate initial and change of location application. 

31. What is the difference between licensure for a PCC – Affiliate facility and a PCC – consolidated facility?

A PCC - Affiliate is licensed under a clinic corporation on behalf of a PCC that has held a valid, unrevoked, and unsuspended license for at least the immediately preceding five years, with no demonstrated history of repeated or uncorrected violations of any regulations that pose immediate jeopardy to a patient, and that has no pending action to suspend or revoke its license, may file an affiliate clinic application to establish a PCC at an additional site or a mobile health care unit, pursuant to HSC § 1218.1. The clinic corporation (parent clinic) that operates the existing licensed PCC may file an affiliate clinic application if all the following conditions are met:

• the corporate officers are the same;
• are owned and operated by the same nonprofit organization with the same board of directors; and,
• have the same medical director or directors and medical policies, procedures, protocols, and standards.

A consolidated license means allowing eligible PCCs or affiliate clinics to add additional physical plants, maintained and operated on separate premises, to an existing PCC or affiliate clinic site. The PCC or affiliate clinic license shall be amended to include the additional physical plant as part of a single consolidated license. A PCC or affiliate clinic may add additional locations that are no more than one-half mile from the licensed clinic adding the additional physical plant under the consolidated license. The clinic corporation that operates the existing licensed PCC shall demonstrate compliance with the following criteria:

• there is a single governing body for all the facilities maintained and operated by the licensee;
• there is a single administration for all the facilities maintained and operated by the licensee; and,
• there is a single medical director for all the facilities maintained and operated by the licensee, with a single set of bylaws, rules, and regulations.

32. Do I need to submit HS 215A for all board members/officers/managers for an Initial PCC-Affiliate application

No, the HS 215A is only required for new board members, officers, and managers.

Consolidated Clinics

33. Is a licensing fee required for an Initial PCC – consolidated application?

Yes. Pursuant to HSC § 1212(d)(1), a licensing fee is required for each additional physical plant added as part of a single consolidated license of a PCC or an affiliate clinic.

34. Am I required to pay a licensing fee for each of my consolidated clinics at time of renewal?

Yes. Pursuant to HSC § 1212(d)(6), upon renewal of a consolidated license approved pursuant to this subdivision, a licensee fee shall be required for each additional physical plant approved on the license. 

Mobile Units

35. In addition to the State PCC – mobile license, would a licensed mobile unit be able to establish services in another county, and need to obtain approvals from each town/municipality where the unit operates?

Yes. Refer to HSC § 1765.150(e) and 1765.155(a) for PCC – mobile requirements. Pursuant to HSC § 1765.130(b)(4), the applicant shall specifically state in their application the proposed area or areas where the mobile unit will be providing services and will be licensed for these areas, including other counties. A Planning and Zoning approval is required for each different county where the mobile clinic will operate. Before the license is approved, the DO will conduct a survey.

36. What information do I need to enter on the STD 850 form for an Initial PCC – mobile application?

Provide the following information below on the STD 850 – Fire Safety Inspection Request form:

• Capacity – Ambulatory, non-ambulatory, and bedridden (if applicable)
• Total Capacity
• Facility Name – Name of mobile unit
• Street Address – Location of the mobile unit when it is not in use and parked overnight
• License Category – Primary Care Clinic – Mobile
• Facility Contact Person Name/Telephone Number
• Hours – Hours of operation when conducting services
• Fire Authority Name and Address
  

You may provide a pre-populated STD 850 

(https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/CDPH%20Document%20Library/STD%20850%20Prepopulated.pdf) and cover letter (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/CDPH%20Document%20Library/STD850.pdf​) to your local fire authority to initiate the fire safety inspection request.

If the STD 850 form is not required for a particular mobile clinic, a written statement from the local fire agency must be submitted. 

37. Is an STD 850 – Fire Safety Inspection Request form required for an Initial PCC – Affiliate license application?

Yes, it is required. 

38. How does one obtain Housing and Community Development (HCD) inspection approval or insignia?

Visit the HCD Permits & Inspection page​ (https://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/permits-and-inspections​) for instructions on how to receive your inspection and obtain the HCD insignia. 

39. Why is the Housing and Community Development inspection required?

Pursuant to HSC § 1765.120, “compliance with all of the following criteria shall be required prior to licensure:

(a) The mobile unit shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Vehicle Code and shall have a vehicle identification number.

(b) The mobile unit shall bear an insignia issued by the Department of Housing and Community Development pursuant to § 18026.”

40. What address do I indicate on the mobile unit application?  

The facility address is the location where the mobile unit is parked or stored when not in use.

Mental Health Facilities

41. Do inpatient mental health facilities qualify as a PCC?

No, inpatient mental health facilities do not qualify as a PCC pursuant to HSC § 1200(a). The DHCS Mental Health Licensing Branch is responsible for the licensing and oversight of mental health programs on a statewide basis, ranging from acute to long-term programs. 

DHCS Mental Health Licensing Branch website: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/provgovpart/Pages/MH-Licensing.aspx

Report of Changes

42. What is the application review process for a PCC – Report of Change (ROC) application? 

All Facilities Letter (AFL) 25-19 notifies facilities of a change to the application review process for all applications submitted to the Centralized Applications Branch (CAB). Effective July 1, 2025, all licensing applications and written notifications will require an application fee, and incomplete applications will be denied. Below is an overview of the application process for a PCC – ROC application:

When CAB receives an application and it is assigned to an analyst, the analyst will conduct a prescreen review. CAB will identify if all required forms/documents/fees are received:

• CAB will issue a one-time prescreen letter requesting any missing forms, documents, and the required application fee, with a deadline of 21-calendar days.
• If CAB does not receive the requested forms, documents and/or application fee within 21-calendar days of the date of the letter, the application will be denied, and you will be required to resubmit your application.

If all required forms, documents and application fee are received, the analyst will conduct a full review of the application:

• Each form/document is reviewed for completion and accuracy, ensuring all information has been captured and to determine whether the facility meets state and federal requirements.
• Database checks and compliance histories are conducted to ensure the applicant is of reputable and responsible character.
• If any deficiencies have been identified, a correction letter is issued to the Application Contact, with a deadline of 60-calendar days.
• CAB will continue to process the application if additional information and/or corrections are received timely.
• If CAB does not receive the requested information and/or corrections within 60-calendar days of the date of the letter, the application will be denied.

Once CAB receives the corrections and completes review, the application will be sent to the district office (DO), who will contact the provider to schedule a survey (if applicable). Once the survey has been completed and approved, CAB will be notified to issue an electronic State license.

If the ROC application does not require a survey, CAB will approve the application and update its licensing records.

 43. My facility did not move to a new location, but changes were made to the address (i.e., removal or addition of a suite number). Do I need to submit a CHOL application?

Yes, when there is a change in address, the Department requires an application to substantiate that change. Please visit the Licensing and Certification Division website​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/ApplyForLicensure-Paper.aspx), select the facility’s Primary Care Clinic type, and select the “Change of Location (CHOL)” dropdown for further instructions.

44. How can I add a service to my PCC license?

To report a Change of Service (CHOS), please visit the Licensing and Certification Division website​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/ApplyForLicensure-Paper.aspx), select the facility’s Primary Care Clinic type, and select the CHOS option from the dropdown menu, and follow the included instructions.

Please note, CAB will only list PCC services on a license that are specified in HSC § 1200. Pursuant to HSC § 1212(b)(1), basic service additions only require a cover letter/notification to CAB. To confirm the full list of services your PCC is approved to provide, contact CAB directly.

45. Can a satellite clinic (i.e., intermittent or intermittent mobile) offer different services than those approved under the licensed parent clinic?

Yes, the satellite clinic can provide different services than the licensed parent clinic. Please note, only services that are provided by the license parent clinic and specified in HSC § 1200 will be listed on the state license. No notification to CAB is required. 

46. My CHOL application is pending a licensing survey with the local DO. Can we treat patients at the new location prior to the completion of the licensing survey?

No, a facility cannot operate at the new location until the local DO approves the licensing survey.

47. Is an onsite survey required when adding services to our PCC license?

Once CAB completes review of the change of service (CHOS) application, the local DO will be notified and determine whether an onsite survey is required.

48. I received a LRA, and it indicates no record found under the facility information section. How do I properly update my facility information?

If the LRA indicates ‘no record found’ under the facility information or you identify discrepancies (i.e., administrator, NPI, mailing address, etc.), please submit a complete ROC application along with the LRA. Please visit the Licensing and Certification Division website (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/ApplyForLicensure-Paper.aspx​), select the facility’s Primary Care Clinic type, and select the appropriate change from the dropdown menu for further instruction.

49. I received a “LRA Report of Change Notification,” however there were no changes to the facility information. Why am I receiving a notification to submit a ROC application to CAB?

If a provider uses the LRA to disclose updated information, the analyst will verify if this information is current in the Department’s database. If not, the analyst sends the provider a notification to submit the appropriate ROC application.

Intermittent Clinics

50. Which intermittent clinic notifications are submitted directly to DHCS, PED or CDPH, CAB?

Intermittent Clinic notifications submitted directly to DHCS, PED:

• Initial
• Change of hours
• Change of location
• Change of name
• Change of parent
• Closure
  

Intermittent Clinic notifications submitted directly to CDPH, CAB:

• Licensed PCC Conversion to Intermittent Clinic
  

Please note, CAB will not process any intermittent clinic notifications that must be directly submitted to DHCS, PED.

 51. How do I report an intermittent clinic?

To properly report intermittent clinic sites operated by licensed parent PCCs, written notification must be provided on letterhead and sent to DHCS, PED at the address below and include the following:

Department of Health Care Services
Provider Enrollment Division 
P.O. Box 997412, MS 4704 Sacramento, CA 95899-7412​

Licensed PCC information:

• License Number
  
• Facility Name and Address
• Federal Employer Identification Number
• National Provider Identifier (NPI)
• Contact Information (name, title, phone number, and email address)

Intermittent Clinic Information:

• Facility Name and Address
• National Provider Identifier (NPI)
• Operational Start Date
• Hours of Operation
• Contact Information (name, title, phone number, and email address)

Licensed PCCs must also report an intermittent clinic change of parent, change of location, change of business name, change of hours, and closures to DHCS, PED in the same format as stated above.

For more information on requirements and procedures for reporting intermittent clinics, visit DHCS, PED’s website​ (https://mcweb.apps.prd.cammis.medi-cal.ca.gov/page/requirements-and-procedures-for-reporting-of-intermittent-clinics-and-mobile-health-units).

To report a licensed PCC that is requesting to convert to an intermittent clinic site, the notification must be sent to both DHCS, PED and to CAB at the following address:

Department of Health Care Services
Provider Enrollment Division 
P.O. Box 997412, MS 4704 Sacramento, CA 95899-7412

And

​​​​California Department of Public Health
Licensing and Certification Division
Centralized Applications Branch
P.O. Box 997377, MS 3207 Sacramento, CA 95899-7377​

Written notifications of licensed PCCs surrendering their license must be on letterhead and include the following information:

• Name of physical address of the licensed clinic that is surrendering their license
• Name and physical address of the new parent clinic
• Name, NPI, and physical address of the new site
• Hours of operation of the new site(s)
• A statement that the licensed clinic is requesting to surrender their license

For more information, visit the Licensing and Certification Division website​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/ApplyForLicensure-Paper.aspx).

52. How do I report the closure of an intermittent clinic?

To report intermittent clinic closure, written notification must be provided on letterhead and sent to DHCS, PED at the address below and include the following:

Department of Health Care Services
Provider Enrollment Division 
P.O. Box 997412, MS 4704 Sacramento, CA 95899-7412

Licensed PCC information:

• License Number
• Facility Name and Address
• Federal Employer Identification Number
• National Provider Identifier (NPI)
• Contact Information (name, title, phone number, and email address)
  

Intermittent Clinic Information:

• Facility Name and Address
• Contact Information (name, title, phone number, and email address)
• Reason for closure and effective date of closure

For more information on requirements and procedures for reporting intermittent clinics, visit DHCS, PED’s website​ (https://mcweb.apps.prd.cammis.medi-cal.ca.gov/page/requirements-and-procedures-for-reporting-of-intermittent-clinics-and-mobile-health-units).

53. What is the review process for intermittent clinic notifications submitted directly to DHCS, PED?

Below is an overview of the review process for intermittent notifications submitted directly to DHCS, PED:

When DHCS, PED receives the intermittent notification and conducts their review, PED will notify DHCS, Audits and Investigation (A&I) for rate determination. Once rate determination is completed, DHCS, PED will create an intermittent clinic profile in their provider master file.

DHCS, PED will then notify CAB of completed intermittent clinic notifications via a monthly report:

• CAB receives the monthly report, and the completed notifications are assigned to an analyst.
• CAB will review the notification(s) and if any additional information is needed, you will be contacted.
• If no additional information is necessary, CAB will enter the information into the CAB database and issue an updated State license.

54. What is the review process for licensed PCC conversion notifications submitted directly to CDPH, CAB?

Below is an overview of the review process for licensed PCC conversion notifications submitted directly to CDPH, CAB:

Provider notifies both CDPH, CAB and DHCS, PED of their request to convert from a licensed PCC to an intermittent clinic. When CAB receives the request, it is assigned to analyst, who will ensure information in complete and accurate. Analyst will verify if:

• License is not expired.
• The PCC is current with any applicable licensing fees.
• No active intermittent clinics under the converting license.
• Facility consents to relinquishing their license.

If any additional information is required, a correction letter is emailed to the clinic contact, with a deadline of 30-calendar days. If CAB does not receive the requested information within 30-calendar days, the request will be deemed incomplete.

If no additional information is required, analyst will approve the conversion request, will update the CAB database and issue an updated State license.

55. What is the review process for converting an intermittent clinic to a licensed PCC?

Intermittent clinic to licensed PCC conversion requests require an Initial licensure/certification application. While the application is under CAB review, the intermittent clinic may continue operation no more than 40-hours a week, pursuant to HSC § 1206(h). These applications are reviewed, analyzed, and evaluated by the Non-Long Term Care Clinic Unit. Once the application review is completed, it will be sent to the local DO for a licensing survey. License will be issued after survey is completed and approved.

To report an Initial application, you must complete the required application packet. Please visit the Licensing and Certification Division website​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/ApplyForLicensure-Paper.aspx), select the facility’s Primary Care Clinic type, and select the “Initial Application” dropdown for further instructions.

56. Who do I contact to check the status of my intermittent clinic notification request? 

All intermittent clinic notifications, except for intermittent clinic to licensed PCC conversion requests, are to be mailed directly to DHCS, PED. DHCS, PED will then notify CAB of completed intermittent clinic notifications via a monthly report. To ensure DHCS, PED received and processed your notification, please contact PED at PED-FSP@dhcs.ca.gov. Once DHCS, PED has confirmed your intermittent notification has been approved and confirms CAB has been notified, you may contact CAB for a status update at CABNLTC@cdph.ca.gov​. 

57. Is a fee required for intermittent clinic notifications? 

No fee is required for intermittent clinic notifications.

General

58. What are the basic requirements to be licensed as a PCC?

A PCC must be a tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation. Pursuant to HSC § 1204(a)(1)(A), in a community clinic, any charges to the patient shall be based on the patient’s ability to pay, utilizing a sliding fee scale. Pursuant to HSC § 1204(a)(1)(B), in a free clinic, there shall be no charges directly to the patient for services rendered or for any drugs, medicines, appliances or apparatuses furnished.

59. Where can I find the most current fee schedule for Initial licensure, change of ownership (CHOW), and ROCs?

Visit our L&C Health Care Facility Licensing Fees page​ (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/LC-Health-Care-Facility-Licensing-Fees.aspx​) for the list of all facility types and associated fee amounts. Facilities located in Los Angeles County are subject to pay an additional supplemental fee.

60. Do I need to have a physical building in order to apply for PCC licensure if I am currently operating via telehealth?

Yes. According to HSC § 1226(a), a physical plant and control of property documentation are required to apply for PCC licensure. If patients are not seen in a physical building, the entity is not eligible for state licensure.

61. How do I determine if my clinic is exempt from licensure?

If a clinic meets exempt from licensure requirements pursuant to HSC § 1206, they must apply to the DHCS’ Provider Enrollment through Provider Application and Validation for Enrollment (PAVE). For more information, visit DHCS’ Exempt from Licensure Clinic Application Information website​ (https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/provgovpart/Pages/ExemptfromLicensureClinicApplicationInformation.aspx). For questions regarding PAVE, contact PAVE@dhcs.ca.gov.

62. How does the PCC, Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), facility licensing exemption work?

As stated on the AFL 21-03 (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/AFL-21-03.aspx) and effective January 1, 2021, AB 1128 (https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200AB1128​) exempts PCCs that exclusively serve PACE participants, or that serves individuals being assessed for PACE program eligibility for not more than 60-calendar days after an individual applies for enrollment, from CDPH licensure. The DHCS fully assumes responsibility for license-exempt PACE facilities. If DHCS determines that a license-exempt PACE facility has provided services to individuals who are not PACE participants or provided assessment services to prospective enrollees beyond a timeframe of 60-calendar days, the facility will be required to apply for licensure with CDPH within 60-calendar days of DHCS' determination and cease accepting new participants until licensure is obtained.

For questions concerning exemption from licensure for PACE facilities, please contact the appropriate local CDPH Licensing and Certification DO (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/DistrictOffices.aspx) or the DHCS Integrated Systems of Care Division's PACE Unit​ (https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/ltc/Pages/ProgramofAll-InclusiveCarefortheElderly.aspx).

63. Is there a maximum timeframe that a clinic can be temporarily closed without having to terminate the license?

Pursuant to HSC § 1245, any licensee or holder of a special permit may, with the approval of the state department, surrender their license or special permit for suspension by the state department for a temporary period not to exceed 24 consecutive months. Any license or special permit suspended may be reinstated by the state department on receipt of an application and after an inspection showing full compliance with all applicable licensing requirements. While the license is suspended, the licensee must continue to pay the annual license renewal fee accompanied with the license renewal application to maintain the license as active.

64. What is the difference between a facility and licensee?

The facility is the location requesting licensure. The licensee is the organization operating the facility.​