The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has proposed a set of regulatory changes that would significantly strengthen oversight of long-term care facilities across the Commonwealth.

The proposal focuses in part on greater scrutiny of ownership and management structures, particularly when facilities change hands. Under the draft regulations, ownership transfers and management company arrangements would be subject to more detailed state review, with expanded criteria to evaluate the suitability of owners and operators.

The proposed rules would also introduce new financial reporting requirements aimed at improving transparency around how long-term care facilities are structured and funded. Regulators say this information will help ensure that facilities maintain the resources needed to provide safe and reliable care.

In addition, facilities would be required to submit formal outbreak response plans and demonstrate enhanced staff training protocols, reflecting lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic about the importance of infection prevention and emergency preparedness in congregate care settings.

State officials say the changes are intended to strengthen accountability across the long-term care sector and ensure that facilities are better prepared to respond to public health risks.

The proposal is part of a broader effort by Massachusetts to improve oversight and transparency in long-term care, with regulators continuing to evaluate additional policy changes aimed at protecting residents and supporting quality care.