Establishes process for independent informal dispute resolution hearings in DOH.

This bill establishes a process allowing nursing homes, assisted living residences, and other licensed healthcare facilities to request independent, informal dispute resolution hearings when they object to deficiencies cited during inspections by New Jersey's Department of Health (DOH). Facilities would request these hearings in a format set by the DOH, triggering a contract with an independent third-party panel of three objective experts (with no ties to DOH or the facility) to review the disputed issue. The panel would recommend whether the deficiency should be upheld, deleted, or modified, and the DOH Commissioner could accept, overrule, or adjust this decision. The process operates under existing administrative procedures and does not replace a facility's right to pursue formal legal challenges if unresolved.