Delaware 2023-2024 Regular Session

Delaware Senate Bill SCR64

Introduced
6/15/23  
Introduced
6/15/23  

Caption

Establishing The Non-acute Long-stay Patient Task Force To Study And Make Findings And Recommendations Regarding The Needs And Options Of Non-acute Hospital Patients In Need Of Transfer To A Lower Acuity Care Setting.

Impact

The task force created by SCR64 is mandated to examine the various obstacles preventing non-acute patients from being discharged from hospitals and transitioning to suitable long-term care settings. It will also consider necessary improvements in post-acute care facilities, increased staffing, and a more efficient guardianship process. These recommendations are expected to have a significant impact on state healthcare resources, healthcare delivery methods, and the management of healthcare costs.

Summary

SCR64 establishes the Non-Acute Long-Stay Patient Task Force in Delaware, aimed at addressing the needs and options for patients who have been hospitalized for 15 days or more without any acute medical requirement. The resolution outlines the detrimental effects of extended hospital stays on patients, including increased health risks such as infections, immobility, and overall poor health outcomes. Additionally, these long-stay patients often face substantial delays in obtaining the appropriate care they require due to barriers like lack of insurance, authorization delays, and geriatric considerations.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around SCR64 appears to reflect a recognition of the urgent need for reform in how non-acute long-stay patients are managed in the healthcare system. Many stakeholders support the formation of the task force as a constructive step towards resolving these issues. However, the discussion around specific implementations and recommendations may create some contention, particularly regarding funding and resource allocation.

Contention

Notable points of contention may include debates over funding for improved care settings and ensuring equal access to adequate long-term care for marginalized populations. Clarity on how to strengthen the guardianship process and streamline insurance authorizations will also be critical. Ultimately, while the task force's creation is a positive step towards addressing these barriers, its effectiveness will depend on the solutions agreed upon following the review process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

DE SB1507

Relating to challenges faced by hospitals in discharging patients with complex needs to post-acute care settings; prescribing an effective date.

DE SCR103

Establishing The Delaware Aquaculture Task Force.

DE SB185

Establishing a committee to study the various barriers to discharge for patients to be safely discharged from acute care facilities.

DE S890

To study the prevalence and cause of long term acute hospital stays

DE HB05398

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Transfer Of Hospital Patients Who Receive Medicaid Benefits To Nursing Homes.

DE HCR49

Recognizing The Week Of May 11 Through May 17, 2025, As "national Hospital Week" In Delaware.

DE HCR79

Proclaiming January 23, 2024 As Maternal Health Awareness Day In The State Of Delaware.

DE SF2885

Temporary funding establishment for settings that receive high-acuity patients discharged from hospitals

DE SB13

An Act To Amend Titles 16 And 30 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Hospital Quality Assessments And Establishment Of A Hospital Quality And Health Equity Fund And Hospital Quality And Health Equity Assessment Commission.

DE AB894

General acute care hospitals: patient directories.

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