135R.1  Definitions.
  As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
  1.  “Ambulatory surgical center” means a distinct facility that operates primarily for the purpose of providing surgical services to patients not requiring hospitalization and in which the expected duration of services does not exceed twenty-four hours following an admission. “Ambulatory surgical center” includes a facility certified or seeking certification as an ambulatory surgical center under the federal Medicare program or under the medical assistance program established pursuant to chapter 249A. “Ambulatory surgical center” does not include the individual or group practice office of a private physician, podiatrist, or dentist who there engages in the lawful practice of surgery, not including cosmetic, reconstructive, or plastic surgery, or the portion of a licensed hospital designated for outpatient surgical treatment.
  2.  “Department” means the department of inspections, appeals, and licensing.
2023 Acts, ch 16, §22; 2023 Acts, ch 119, §20