Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00166

Introduced
2/18/16  
Introduced
2/18/16  
Refer
2/18/16  
Refer
2/18/16  
Report Pass
3/8/16  
Report Pass
3/8/16  
Refer
3/17/16  
Refer
3/17/16  
Report Pass
3/23/16  
Refer
4/6/16  
Report Pass
4/11/16  
Report Pass
4/13/16  
Report Pass
4/13/16  
Refer
4/15/16  
Refer
4/15/16  
Report Pass
4/21/16  
Report Pass
4/21/16  
Report Pass
4/21/16  
Report Pass
4/21/16  
Engrossed
4/30/16  
Report Pass
5/1/16  
Report Pass
5/1/16  
Chaptered
5/11/16  
Chaptered
5/11/16  
Enrolled
5/16/16  
Enrolled
5/16/16  
Passed
5/25/16  

Caption

An Act Expanding Utilization Of Patient-designated Caregivers.

Impact

The legislation is positioned to significantly influence state laws governing nursing home discharge procedures. It requires nursing homes to recognize and document the designation of caregivers and to provide necessary training and instructions for caregivers related to their responsibilities. Additionally, the Department of Public Health is empowered to set minimum standards for nursing home discharge planning services, enhancing accountability and ensuring that residents and caregivers are supported throughout the discharge process.

Summary

SB00166, known as the Act Expanding Utilization of Patient-Designated Caregivers, seeks to enhance the involvement of caregivers in the discharge process for residents transitioning from nursing homes back to their homes. The bill establishes a framework to allow residents to designate individuals—such as relatives, friends, or neighbors—as caregivers responsible for providing specified post-discharge assistance in the resident's home. This move is intended to facilitate a smoother transition and improve the quality of care that residents receive after leaving nursing facilities.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB00166 appears to be favorable, particularly among advocates for patient rights and caregivers. Supporters argue that the bill addresses a critical gap in post-discharge support for patients, potentially leading to better health outcomes. However, there are concerns about the implications of caregiver liability, as the bill includes clauses that limit the legal responsibility of nursing homes in cases where caregivers may not fulfill their duties adequately.

Contention

Notable points of contention primarily revolve around the potential for increased caregiver burden without proper support and training. While the bill aims to empower caregivers, there are questions regarding the adequacy of training provided and whether caregivers will have the resources necessary to fulfill their roles effectively. Furthermore, the legislation explicitly states that designated caregivers will not be eligible for reimbursement under government or commercial payer plans for the assistance provided, which raises concerns about the financial viability of having untrained family members take on such responsibilities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05488

An Act Concerning Various Revisions To The Public Health Statutes.

CT HB05296

An Act Expanding The Connecticut Home-care Program For The Elderly.

CT SB00180

An Act Concerning Adverse Determination And Utilization Reviews.

CT HB05290

An Act Concerning Various Revisions To The Public Health Statutes.

CT SB00001

An Act Concerning The Health And Safety Of Connecticut Residents.

CT HB05001

An Act Supporting Connecticut Seniors And The Improvement Of Nursing And Home-based Care.

CT HB05523

An Act Concerning Allocations Of Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds And Provisions Related To General Government, Human Services, Education And The Biennium Ending June 30, 2025.

CT SB00012

An Act Expanding Access To Paid Sick Days In The State.

CT HB05198

An Act Concerning Telehealth.

CT HB05320

An Act Concerning Hospital Financial Assistance.

Similar Bills

KS HB2246

Substitute for HB 2246 by Committee on Judiciary - Establishing requirements for the involuntary discharge or transfer of a resident in an adult residential care facility and authorizing the secretary to investigate and assess a penalty for violations.

KS SB191

Establishing requirements for the involuntary discharge or transfer of a resident in an adult residential care facility, the right to appeal such discharge or transfer and a process for such appeal.

CT SB00956

An Act Requiring Discharge Standards Regarding Follow-up Appointments And Prescription Medications For Patients Being Discharged From A Hospital Or Nursing Home Facility.

CT HB06552

An Act Concerning The Transfer And Discharge Of Nursing Facility Residents And Audits Of Certain Long-term Care Facilities.

CT HB06317

An Act Prohibiting Discharges From Nursing Homes And Residential Care Homes To Temporary Or Unstable Housing.

CT SB00196

An Act Prohibiting Involuntary Discharges From Nursing Homes And Residential Care Homes To Temporary Or Unstable Housing.

ND SB2070

The rights of health care facility residents.

CT HB06543

An Act Ameliorating The Debt Owed To Nursing Facilities.