Hawaii House Bill HB2285

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/26/24

Caption

Relating To Provider Orders For Life Sustaining Treatment Form.

Impact

If passed, HB 2285 will significantly impact the healthcare landscape in Hawaii, particularly for patients in hospice care who may face imminent death. Currently, the law's strict requirement for a physical examination prior to signing a POLST can lead to delays in establishing a patient's care preferences. As a result, patients may undergo unwanted and unnecessary medical interventions at a critical time in their lives. The legislation is seen as a necessary update to adapt to the evolving nature of healthcare delivery, especially in urgent care scenarios.

Summary

House Bill 2285 proposes amendments to the existing laws governing Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) in Hawaii. The bill specifically aims to redefine the term 'patient's provider' by removing the requirement that the provider must have examined the patient in order to sign off on a POLST form. This change is intended to facilitate quicker access to POLST for patients who are at serious risk of unwanted medical treatment through burdensome procedural requirements. By allowing licensed healthcare professionals such as physicians, advanced practice registered nurses, and physician assistants to sign these forms without a face-to-face encounter, the bill aims to streamline the process for patients in urgent need.,

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 2285 involves the balance between establishing patient autonomy in healthcare decisions and ensuring adequate oversight of such decisions. Supporters argue that the changes empower patients by reducing bureaucratic delays that can compromise urgent medical needs. However, some critics express concerns that eliminating the requirement for a direct examination could lead to inappropriate care decisions being made without a comprehensive understanding of the patient's medical condition. Debates may arise regarding the potential risks and benefits of expediting the POLST process without the in-person assessment typically recommended in more stable medical situations.