HB 6954

Abstract

Amends the Department of Professional Regulation Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Provides that when a licensed health care worker, as defined in the Health Care Worker Self-Referral Act, (1) has been convicted of any forcible intentional felony or a sexual criminal act that requires registration under the Sex Offender Registration Act against a patient in the course of patient care or treatment; (2) has been convicted of any forcible intentional felony against any natural person; or (3) is required as a part of a criminal sentence to register under the Sex Offender Registration Act, then the Secretary, after consultation with Department's regulatory and prosecutorial staff, may immediately temporarily suspend the license of a health care worker, as defined in the Health Care Worker Self-Referral Act, without a hearing if the Secretary finds that evidence in his or her possession indicates that the health care worker's continuation in practice would constitute an immediate danger to the public. Provides that within 15 business days after receiving notice from the State's Attorney of the filing of criminal charges against the health care worker, the Secretary shall issue an administrative order that the health care worker may only practice with a chaperone during all patient encounters pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings. Provides that in instances in which the Secretary immediately suspends a license, a hearing on the health care worker's license must be convened by the appropriate licensing or disciplinary board within 15 days after the summary suspension and completed without appreciable delay. Adds provisions concerning the confidentiality of certain information and documents. Effective immediately.