An Act Concerning Authorization For The Use Of Feeding Tubes And Antiepileptic Medications In School Settings.
If enacted, this bill will amend existing statutes around student health care in schools, allowing unlicensed personnel to undertake responsibilities traditionally reserved for licensed medical practitioners. This change is intended to ensure that students with conditions such as epilepsy or significant feeding disorders can receive timely care when a nurse is not present. Schools will need to adopt specific policies and procedures in line with this legislation, ensuring that medication administration is conducted under appropriate protocols and supervision.
SB00369 aims to authorize unlicensed personnel to administer tube feedings and antiepileptic medications in public and nonpublic school settings. The bill includes provisions that allow trained unlicensed assistive personnel to perform these medical tasks for children with specific medical needs, thereby enhancing access to necessary healthcare within schools. The administration of these procedures requires written authorization from the child's parent or guardian along with a prescription from a qualified medical provider. This measure is particularly important for children who may require immediate intervention during school hours.
While proponents argue that SB00369 is crucial for accommodating students' health needs, critics may raise concerns about the training and oversight of unlicensed personnel administering medical treatments. There might be worries about the adequacy of training required for unlicensed personnel, as well as the potential risks associated with medical administration without professional oversight. Discussions surrounding the bill may also address equity in healthcare access in schools, particularly for students with health challenges.
The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2012, broadening the scope of care available to students in schools. Local and regional boards of education will be responsible for enacting procedures that comply with the law, and school nurses and medical advisors will play key roles in this process.