Final answer:
Buildings are considered new health care occupancies if approved after March 1, 2003. The classification helps meet safety and functional codes. The Hill Burton Act of 1946 was a pivotal point in federal funding for hospital construction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Buildings are considered new health care occupancies if final plans for new construction, additions, renovations, or changes in occupancy were approved by the local authority having jurisdiction after March 1, 2003. This classification is crucial for adhering to the relevant codes and regulations that ensure the safety and functionality of healthcare facilities.
The history of federal involvement in hospital construction dates back to 1946, with the passage of the Hospital Survey and Construction Act, also known as the Hill Burton Act. It was influenced by the American Hospital Association's recommendation in 1943 and a push from President Truman for improved healthcare facilities. This Act aimed to increase the number of hospital beds per resident and allowed states to allocate federal funding to meet these healthcare infrastructure needs. While initially successful, it faced challenges including issues of racial segregation in the allocation of facilities until the Supreme Court intervened in 1963.