(1) There is hereby established a Private Hospitals Board to assist and advise the Minister on matters relating to the administration of this Act. The Board has the powers, duties and responsibilities that are imposed by this Act or the regulations, or as may be delegated to it by the Minister.
(2) The Board consists of the Chief Medical Officer or his or her nominee, and not less than 7 nor more than 10 other persons to be appointed by the Minister. The members of the Board other than the Chief Medical Officer shall hold office for 2 years, but shall be eligible for re-appointment.
(3) The members of the Board shall, so far as is possible, be appointed on a basis representative of all aspects of private hospital operation and management.
(4) If at any meeting the chairperson is absent, the members present shall elect one of their number to be chairperson for that meeting.
(5) Any vacancy in the membership of the Board, whether temporary or otherwise may be filled by the appointment by the Minister of a person for the period of such vacancy.
(6) Any vacancy in the office of chairperson shall be filled by the election, by members of the Board, of any other member for the period of such vacancy.
(7) Five members of the Board constitute a quorum.
(8) The powers of the Board shall be exercisable not-withstanding any vacancy in its number or any defect with regard to the appointment of any of its members.
(9) The Board shall meet at least quarterly, and, subject to this Act, shall regulate the procedure to be followed at its meetings.