Section 2060.303  Rule Exception Request Process

a)         Requests for exceptions to any Section in this Part that is not statutorily mandated may be submitted to the Department.  Requests shall be made by the Authorized Organization Representative to the Associate Director in writing, indicating the specific basis, rationale and need for the exception. Requests for exceptions may be made by any Department staff or provider.

b)         In order to maintain uniformity to the greatest extent feasible, the Department will endeavor to keep exceptions to a minimum.  Prior to granting any exception, the Department shall consider, but not be limited to, the following factors: the organization's patient or client population and size; type of services; geographic location; client or patient well-being if the exception is granted; the specific geographic location of the organization; and the accreditation status of the organization, as applicable.

c)         Exceptions are at the sole discretion of the Department and the decision of the Associate Director is final.

d)         The Department may revoke any exception granted when the circumstances that gave rise to the exception no longer exist or when any conditions imposed by the granting of the exception are not implemented by the provider or are subsequently prohibited by State or federal statute.  The provider shall notify the Department in writing within 10 calendar days when the circumstances that gave rise to the exception no longer exist.

e)         An exception to any Sections shall be valid only for the term of the license under which it was granted unless a different time period or permanent variance is specified by the Department.  At the point of license renewal, reapplication for the exception shall be made.

f)         Any licensed organization may be granted deemed status, in accordance with the provisions specified in Section 2060.229 of this Part.

(Source:  Amended at 25 Ill. Reg. 11063, effective August 14, 2001)