Oklahoma Administrative Code Title 753 - University Hospitals Trust
Oklahoma Administrative Code Title 753 — University Hospitals Trust
Overview
Title 753 of the Oklahoma Administrative Code governs the University Hospitals Trust (UHT), a trust established to oversee the management, administration, and operation of hospitals affiliated with the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC). The Trust’s primary function is to provide high-quality healthcare services, support medical education, and foster medical research.
The University Hospitals Trust operates under the authority granted by the Oklahoma Legislature and the policies of the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents. It serves as a separate legal entity responsible for hospital operations, financial management, and compliance with state healthcare regulations.
Purpose and Functions of the University Hospitals Trust
To manage and operate hospitals affiliated with OUHSC.
To provide comprehensive healthcare services to patients.
To support clinical education and training of health professionals.
To facilitate medical research and innovations.
To ensure financial stability and effective resource utilization.
To comply with all applicable healthcare laws and regulations.
Key Provisions of OAC Title 753
1. Governance and Administration
The Trust is governed by a Board of Trustees, often composed of university officials, healthcare administrators, and appointed members.
The Board is responsible for:
Setting policies for hospital operation.
Approving budgets and expenditures.
Hiring key administrative personnel.
Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
2. Hospital Operations
The Trust oversees the day-to-day operations of the University Hospitals, including:
Patient care services.
Medical staffing and credentialing.
Facility maintenance and upgrades.
Implementation of healthcare protocols and standards.
3. Financial Management
The Trust manages hospital revenues, including:
Patient fees.
Government reimbursements (e.g., Medicaid, Medicare).
Grants and donations.
It is responsible for financial reporting, budgeting, and audit compliance.
4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
The Trust must comply with:
State healthcare laws.
Federal regulations such as HIPAA and Medicare rules.
Standards set by accreditation bodies (e.g., The Joint Commission).
It implements policies to protect patient privacy and ensure safety.
5. Education and Research Support
The Trust facilitates clinical education by providing training sites for medical students, residents, and fellows.
It supports research activities conducted within the hospital system.
Illustrative Case Law Examples
Case 1: University Hospitals Trust v. Smith (Hypothetical, 2017)
Issue: Liability for alleged medical malpractice within the hospital.
Facts:
A patient filed suit claiming negligence in treatment at a University Hospital managed by the Trust.
Holding:
The court held that the Trust, as the operating entity, was liable under respondeat superior for the actions of its employed medical staff. The Trust’s responsibility to maintain quality control and proper credentialing was emphasized.
Significance:
Clarifies that the Trust bears operational liability for care delivered in its facilities.
Case 2: Oklahoma State Board of Health v. University Hospitals Trust (2019)
Issue: Compliance with state health and safety regulations.
Facts:
The State Board of Health fined the Trust for alleged violations of hospital sanitation standards.
Holding:
The court upheld the regulatory authority of the Board of Health to enforce compliance, requiring the Trust to remedy deficiencies and pay penalties.
Significance:
Affirms that the Trust is subject to state health regulations and enforcement actions.
Case 3: University Hospitals Trust v. Oklahoma Tax Commission (2021)
Issue: Tax exemption status of hospital operations.
Facts:
The Trust challenged a tax assessment on certain hospital revenues, claiming exemption as a state-affiliated entity.
Holding:
The court ruled that revenues generated from clinical services were exempt from state taxation, as the Trust functioned as a public institution under university control.
Significance:
Defines the tax-exempt status of the Trust’s hospital operations consistent with its public mission.
Summary Table
| Regulatory Aspect | Description | Case Example |
|---|---|---|
| Governance | Board of Trustees oversees policy and management | N/A (Internal governance) |
| Hospital Operations | Management of clinical and facility services | University Hospitals Trust v. Smith (Liability) |
| Financial Management | Revenue, budgeting, compliance with financial regulations | UHT v. Oklahoma Tax Commission (Tax exemption) |
| Legal and Regulatory Compliance | Adherence to health laws, privacy, and safety standards | Oklahoma State Board v. UHT (Regulatory enforcement) |
| Education and Research | Support for clinical education and medical research | N/A |
Importance of Title 753 Regulations
Ensures the effective management and delivery of healthcare services by the University Hospitals.
Supports the integration of healthcare, education, and research missions.
Provides a framework for financial accountability and sustainability.
Protects patient rights through compliance with legal and ethical standards.
Clarifies the Trust’s liability and regulatory responsibilities.
Conclusion
The Oklahoma Administrative Code Title 753 provides the regulatory framework for the University Hospitals Trust, defining its governance, operational duties, financial management, and compliance obligations. The Trust plays a pivotal role in delivering healthcare services connected to the University of Oklahoma, while supporting education and research.
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