Hospitals: Rules and Regulations
Background check applications for all users
To prepare for the transition to the new DHS DQA Provider Portal, the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) will not accept any new background check applications for entity operators, non-client residents, or other required individuals for new or renewing entity license/certification applications, or for rehabilitation review applicants as of November 22, 2025.
DQA will resume accepting background check applications on December 15, 2025, through the DHS DQA Provider Portal. To prepare for this transition and for more information, visit our webpage. Caregiver background checks completed by entities for employees and contractors are not affected by this transition.
Hospitals are required to follow certain rules and regulations. Find information about these regulations and compliance among hospitals and critical access hospitals in Wisconsin.
Reports
The Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) issues hospital reports. These reports include information about:
- Hospitals that have been cited for not meeting hospital regulations.
- Complaints against a hospital.
- Complaints that led to citations.
These reports are available on our Hospital Statistics webpage.
Regulations
State regulations
Federal regulations
- Code of Federal Regulations Title 42 Public Health
- For general and specialty hospitals and swing bed: 42 CFR Part 482 Conditions Of Participation For Hospitals
- For critical access hospitals: 42 CFR Part 485 Conditions Of Participation: Specialized Providers
- State Operations Manual From CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)
Waiver and variance requests
To submit a waiver or variance request, visit Waivers and Variances: Hospitals, Hospices, Home Health Agencies or Personal Care Agencies.