Connecticut Senate Bill SB00512

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/13
• Refer: 1/24/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Nursing Home Patients' Bill Of Rights.

Impact

If enacted, SB00512 would directly affect the provisions laid out in section 19a-550 of the general statutes. The bill would broaden the scope of the existing nursing home patients' rights to encompass internal transfers, which have traditionally been less regulated. By codifying the rights of patients in this context, the legislation seeks to bring transparency and fairness in how patients are managed during their stay in long-term care facilities. This change is expected to positively influence the standard of care and enhance the overall environment for residents.

Summary

SB00512, known as the Nursing Home Patients' Bill of Rights, proposes an important amendment to the existing patient rights concerning transfers within long-term care facilities. The bill aims to enhance the legal framework governing the treatment and rights of residents in nursing homes by specifically recognizing and addressing their rights in relation to transfers occurring within a single facility. This amendment is intended to empower residents by ensuring that their preferences and rights are respected during such transitions, thereby promoting dignity and autonomy in their care.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB00512 could arise from debates over the enforcement of these rights and the practical implications for nursing home administration. Critics may express concerns about the capacity of facilities to comply with the expanded rights, potentially citing logistical challenges and resource limitations. Proponents of the bill, however, emphasize the necessity of protecting vulnerable populations and argue that enhancing patient rights is a moral imperative that foster better healthcare outcomes. The discussions around the bill could highlight varying perspectives on the balance between patient autonomy and the operational realities faced by long-term care providers.