No Patient Left Alone Act; create to provide certain visitation rights for hospital patients.
Impact
This bill has significant implications for state laws governing hospital visitation. It prohibits hospitals from terminating, suspending, or requiring patients to waive their visitation rights, even during declared emergencies. Additionally, hospitals must develop and post informational materials outlining these rights, fostering transparency and accessibility. The legislation reinforces the principle that patients should not be left alone without the support of a chosen visitor, which can be essential for their emotional well-being.
Summary
House Bill 758, known as the No Patient Left Alone Act, establishes visitation rights for both minor and adult patients in hospitals. It allows patients to have a designated visitor, such as a family member or guardian, present during their hospital care. This legislation is a response to concerns raised during the COVID-19 pandemic regarding visitor restrictions in medical facilities, aiming to ensure that patients are not isolated from their loved ones during hospital stays.
Contention
One of the notable points of contention surrounding HB 758 pertains to the allowable limits on visitation established by hospitals. While the bill grants rights to patients, it also stipulates that hospitals may impose certain restrictions, such as prohibiting visitors if their presence is deemed medically contraindicated or if they are disruptive. This balance between patient rights and hospital operational safety raises discussions about the appropriate limits of visitation policies and the role of healthcare professionals in determining them. Critics may argue that such conditions could lead to inconsistent implementation and potential hardship for patients requiring the support of family during their hospital stay.
Hospitals; creating the No Patient Left Alone Act; providing for certain visitation rights, policies and safety protocols; prohibiting certain termination, suspension or waiver of visitation rights; prohibiting certain action against hospital; effective date.
Enacting the no patient left alone act to require facilities to allow in-person visitation to certain patients at hospitals, adult care home and patient care facilities.