KRS 211.820: Functions, powers, and duties of Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

(1) The Cabinet for Health and Family Services shall have the following functions,

powers, and duties:

(a) To conduct a survey of all of the existing facilities within the state having to

do with the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of patients with ki dney

disease and to prepare and submit its findings and a specific program of

action;

(b) To evaluate the need for the creation of local or regional facilities and for the

establishing of a major kidney research center;

(c) To develop and administer scient ific investigations into the cause, prevention,

methods of treatment, and cure of renal disease, including research into

transplantation of kidneys;

(d) To develop techniques for an effective method of mass testing for the

detection of kidney diseases and urinary tract infections;

(e) To develop more efficient methods of medical care for kidney disease and to

develop more effective and economical kidney dialysis equipment;

(f) To survey and evaluate the need for a program of professional education and

training for medical students, physicians, and nurses in the care and treatment

of kidney diseases;

(g) To report to the Governor and to a committee of the legislature annually on or

before February 1 its findings, a progress report, its activities and the stat e's

total needs in this area; and

(h) To enter into such contracts and agreements with individuals, colleges,

universities, associations, corporations, municipalities, and other units of

government as may be deemed necessary and advisable to carry out the

general intent and purposes of this section. Such contracts may provide for

payment by the state, within the limit of funds available, for materials,

equipment, or services.

(2) The secretary may adopt rules and regulations necessary to effect the purposes of

this section.