# COMAR Title 10 — Maryland Department of Health

## Subtitle 05 — Freestanding Ambulatory Care Facilities

### Chapter 02 — Freestanding Birthing Centers

#### Regulation .10 Hospitalization.

*COMAR 10.05.02.10*

A. A freestanding birthing center shall have a written procedure for the transfer of patients to a nearby hospital when care beyond the capabilities of the facility is required.

B. Procedures for emergency transfer to a hospital shall include, at minimum:

  (1) Written clinical practice guidelines related to emergency transfer procedures;

  (2) A mechanism for notifying the hospital of a pending emergency case;

  (3) A mechanism for arranging appropriate transportation to the hospital; and

  (4) Protocols for transmitting a copy of the patient’s medical record to the hospital.

C. A freestanding birthing center shall conduct a transfer drill with staff that may be involved in patient transfers at least once a year.