PURPOSE: This rule specifies the manner through which hospitals may request a variance from 19 CSR 30-20.001 through 19 CSR 30-20.140. SENIOR SERVICES Division 30—Division of Regulation and Licensure

1. (1) Requests for variance from the requirements of 19 CSR 30-20.001 through 19 CSR 30-20.140 shall be in writing to the Department of Health. Approvals for variance shall be in writing and both requests and approvals shall be made a part of the permanent Department of Health records for the facility. Licensed hospitals participating in innovative demonstration projects may be granted a variance from certain requirements.

   1. (A) This request shall contain—

      1. 1. The section number and text of the

rule in question;

1. 2. Specific reasons why compliance

with the rule would impose an undo hardship on the operator, including an estimate of any additional cost which might be involved;

1. 3. An explanation of the relevant exten-

uating factors which may be relevant; and

1. 4. A complete description of the indi-

vidual characteristics of the facility or patients or any other factors which would fulfill the intent of the rule in question to safeguard the health, safety and the welfare of the patient, staff or public if the variance from the requirement is granted.

AUTHORITY: sections 192.006 and 197.080, RSMo 2000 and 197.154, RSMo Supp. 2007.* This rule previously filed as 19 CSR 30-20.021(1) and (1)(A). Original rule filed on June 27, 2007, effective Feb. 29, 2008. *Original authority: 192.006, RSMo 1993, amended 1995; 197.080, RSMo 1953, amended 1993, 1995; and 197.154, RSMo 2004.