Under what condition can a facility exceed its licensed bed capacity?

A facility can exceed its licensed bed capacity when it receives a written request from the relevant health department. This process ensures that any change in bed capacity is documented and regulated, which is critical for maintaining oversight of healthcare facilities. It indicates that the department has identified a need for additional capacity—such as during an influx of patients—and is permitting the facility to accommodate this temporary increase.

This policy is in place to ensure patient safety and quality of care, as exceeding bed capacity without regulation could lead to overcrowding and diminished care standards. Additionally, this structured approach allows for the department to monitor and manage healthcare resources effectively, ensuring that all facilities comply with health regulations while addressing emergencies or increased demand.

In contrast, other options such as making unilateral decisions by the facility, hosting special events, or acquiring additional funding do not align with the regulatory framework governing healthcare operations. They could potentially jeopardize patient care and safety if not managed through proper authorization channels.