(a) All home health agencies shall maintain compliance with the licensing requirements. These requirements do not prohibit the use of alternate concepts, methods, procedures, techniques, equipment, personnel qualifications or the conducting of pilot projects, provided such exceptions are carried out with provisions for safe and adequate care and with the prior written approval of the Department. Such approval shall provide for the terms and conditions under which the exception is granted. A written request and substantiating evidence supporting the request shall be submitted by the applicant or licensee to the Department.

(b) The Department shall approve or deny such request within 60 days of submission. Such approval shall be in writing and shall provide for the terms and conditions under which the exception is granted. A denial shall be in writing and shall specify the basis therefor.

(c) Any approval of the Department granted under this section, or a true copy thereof, shall be readily available in the agency and accessible upon request.