Virginia House Bill HB2160

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/10/23

Caption

In-person visitation; policies and procedures at certain facilities.

Impact

The bill's introduction seeks to ensure that in-person visitation is allowed in circumstances like end-of-life situations, emotional distress, and major medical decision-making. Facilities are required to adopt these policies that should not impose stricter rules on visitors than those applied to staff. This provision is aimed at fostering an environment that allows for family support, especially during critical times in a resident's care. Additionally, the bill specifies implementation by August 1, 2023, further emphasizing the urgency of this legislative measure.

Summary

House Bill 2160 aims to amend the Code of Virginia by establishing guidelines for in-person visitation policies within certain health and care facilities, including hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. The bill mandates that each facility create visitation policies that prioritize safety while allowing for adequate visitation rights. It emphasizes the importance of allowing family members and essential caregivers to maintain a presence in the lives of residents, clients, or patients, thereby promoting mental and emotional well-being.

Contention

However, the bill has faced points of contention. Critics may argue about the balance between necessary health precautions and the rights of patients to receive visitors, especially concerning any potential health risks that could arise with increased visitation. Moreover, there can be ethical disputes about the extent to which facilities should mandate protective protocols, especially in unprecedented circumstances like pandemics where health risks proliferate. As the bill moves forward, it could spark debates around the adequacy of the required infection control measures compared to the rights of individuals in care facilities.