Hawaii Senate Bill SB592

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/25/23

Caption

Relating To Health.

Impact

If enacted, SB592 would amend Section 334-59 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, specifying protocols for emergency hospitalization. This will involve psychiatrists or advanced practice registered nurses assessing individuals who are potentially dangerous to themselves or others. The entitlement of these patients to communicate with their guardians or chosen individuals upon admission is reiterated, thereby safeguarding their right to connections crucial for their well-being. The bill recognizes the necessity for proper oversight when patients cannot make health decisions due to their mental state, promoting a more supportive and structured treatment approach.

Summary

Senate Bill 592, introduced during the Thirty-Second Legislature of Hawaii in 2023, aims to enhance the care and treatment provided to individuals suffering from severe mental illnesses or substance abuse disorders. The primary objective of this legislation is to ensure that patients who are subject to emergency hospitalization are assessed to determine if they require a surrogate or guardian to make appropriate health care decisions on their behalf. Such assessments are critical when patients are found lacking decisional capacity, facilitating timely intervention and care during critical moments.

Contention

There are potential points of contention regarding SB592, particularly concerning the balancing act between ensuring timely care while respecting patient autonomy. Critics may argue about the implications of determining when a surrogate or guardian is needed, raising concerns about possible overreach into patient rights. The necessity for thorough assessments may create additional burdens on healthcare professionals, but supporters contend that the benefits of improved care for vulnerable populations outweigh these challenges. The discussions surrounding these provisions will likely center on how best to implement the bill while maintaining a patient-centered focus.