A Disappointing Decision

Virginia Department of Health recommends denial of a Certificate of Public Need for new Level 2 Trauma medical center proposed in Bottoms Bridge.
What is a Certificate of Public Need (COPN) ?

"The . . . program requires owners and sponsors of identified medical care facility projects to secure a COPN from the State Health Commissioner prior to initiating projects . . ."

"No certificate of public need may be issued unless the Commissioner has determined that a public need for the project, or portion thereof, exists and has been demonstrated. There are criteria or factors used in determining whether a public need exists. The criteria include: (i) the relationship of the project to the long term health care state plan, (ii) the need for enhanced facilities to serve the population of an area, (iii) the extent to which the project is accessible to all residents in the proposed area and the immediate economic impact and financial feasibility of the project."