(a)  Except as otherwise provided in subdivision (b) or (d) of Section 1747, no person, political subdivision of the state, or other governmental agency shall establish, conduct, maintain, or represent itself as a hospice unless a license has been issued under this chapter. Multiple locations need not obtain a separate license. Multiple locations shall be listed on the license of the parent agency and each shall pay a licensing fee in the amount prescribed by subdivision (a) of Section 1750.

(b)  Any person, political subdivision of the state, or other governmental agency desiring a license to establish a hospice shall file with the state department a verified application on a form prescribed and furnished by the state department which contains any information as may be required by the state department for the proper administration and enforcement of this chapter.

(c)  Any hospice that is not required to obtain a license under this chapter shall disclose in all advertisements and information provided to the public all of the following information:

(1)  It is not required to be licensed and is not regulated by the state department.

(2)  Any complaint against the hospice should be directed to the local district attorney and the state department.

(3)  Any complaint against personnel licensed by a board or committee within the Department of Consumer Affairs and employed by the hospice should be directed to the respective board or committee. Any complaint against a certified home health aide or certified nurse assistant shall be directed to the state department.

The address and phone number of any state agency, board, or committee which is responsible for addressing complaints shall be provided by the hospice, upon request, to any patient of the hospice.

(Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 492, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 1998.)