Requesting The Department Of Health To Conduct A Study To Examine Whether Bed-hold Policies Place An Undue Financial Burden On Individuals In Assisted Living Facilities.
The discussion surrounding the bill points to significant concerns about how bed-hold policies function in practice. When residents of assisted living facilities require hospitalization, they often face the dual challenge of paying for both their hospital stay and a reserved bed in the facility. This dual financial obligation may lead to potential delays in necessary medical care or even a complete avoidance of it, which could worsen health outcomes and lead to higher healthcare costs in the long run due to complications.
House Resolution 165 (HR165) requests the Department of Health in Hawaii to conduct a study examining the financial burdens imposed by bed-hold policies on individuals residing in assisted living facilities. These facilities provide essential long-term care services, particularly for elderly residents who require assistance with daily activities. The bill highlights the substantial costs associated with living in these facilities, where monthly rents can range between $3,800 and $8,800. The study is intended to evaluate whether current policies create undue financial strains that may disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including the elderly and low-income individuals.
The resolution emphasizes the need for a comprehensive analysis of the impact of bed-hold policies on assisted living residents, particularly looking into the health disparities exacerbated by these policies. The aim is to provide lawmakers with evidence and recommendations that may inform future legislative efforts, which could include the modification or repeal of such financial policies. There is an implied recognition that these practices might undermine the quality of care and financial sustainability of vulnerable populations in the state.
Ultimately, HR165 calls for the Department of Health's study to culminate in a report that offers findings and suggestions for legislative consideration by the Regular Session of 2025, potentially paving the way for policy changes that could alleviate the financial burdens faced by residents in assisted living facilities.