During the course of review under this chapter, the department shall conduct one or more public hearings, at least one of which must be in the county where the hospital to be acquired is located. At the hearings, anyone may file written comments and exhibits or appear and make a statement. The department may subpoena additional information or witnesses, require and administer oaths, require sworn statements, take depositions, and use related discovery procedures for purposes of the hearing and at any time prior to making a decision on the application.

A hearing must be held not later than forty-five days after receipt of a completed application. At least ten days' public notice must be given before the holding of a hearing.