The following definitions shall apply throughout this Section, unless context otherwise clearly indicates to the contrary:

1. (1) "Available" means provided directly by the facility or by written agreement with a qualified provider of the service within one hour driving time.
2. (2) "Critical Access Hospital" means a facility designated by the North Carolina Office of Rural Health in accordance with 42 CFR 485 Subpart F.

History Note: Authority G.S. 131E-79;
Eff. January 1, 1996;
Amended Eff. November 1, 2004;
Pursuant to G.S. 150B-21.3A, rule is necessary without substantive public interest Eff. July 22, 2017;
Amended Eff. October 1, 2019.