Numeric Need Methodologies

Methodology section's last revision date: April 23, 2025

The Certificate of Need (CN) program is a regulatory process that requires certain healthcare providers to obtain state approval before building certain types of facilities or offering new or expanded services. Program staff members are available to provide technical assistance to you before submitting your application. Staff members are also available to help you determine if a Certificate of Need is necessary.

Hospital/acute care
Adult elective percutaneous coronary interventions

The initial PCI methodologies were available for suggested corrections until December 18, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. If you would like the Excel version, contact the CN program.

For comparison, two different runs of the methodology were produced. One using Clinical Outcomes Assessment Program (COAP) data. The other, using Comprehensive Hospital Abstract Reporting System (CHARS) data and department outpatient survey results. These data sources are identified in WAC 246-310-745(7).

Hospice
Nursing homes

Nursing home projects' current capital expenditure threshold is set at a minimum of $3,865,655. Updated January 2024 and established for calendar years 2024 and 2025, Washington Administration Code 246-310-900.

End-stage renal disease (ESRD)

Operational Station Report and Timeline Modifications

End-stage Renal Disease Service Area Methodologies

CN Utilization Survey Information

Survey section's last revision date: March 29, 2024

CN utilization surveys are used to poll existing providers with the goal of understanding what services are currently available to each community. This data is critical in forming accurate numeric need methodologies.

Facility Type Survey Start Date Survey Close Date Link to Survey
Hospice April 1 May 1 Hospice Survey
Acute Care Bed July 1 August 1 Acute Care Bed Survey
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) July 10 August 15 PCI Survey
Operating Rooms (OR) August 1 September 1 OR Survey
Home Health September 1 October 1 Home Health Survey

Numeric Need Methodology Regulations

The CN Program determines need according to factors that are variable in relation to the proposed services. These standards are outlined in the Washington Administrative Code, linked below.

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