Residents of long-term care facilities provided with the right to a designated support person.
Impact
This legislation aims to improve the quality of life for individuals in long-term care settings by recognizing the importance of emotional support during healthcare processes. The guarantee of a designated support person addresses a significant gap in patient rights and aims to reduce feelings of isolation among residents. By formalizing this right, the bill also aims to foster a more supportive healthcare environment that enhances overall patient care.
Summary
House File 2407 focuses on enhancing the rights of residents in long-term care facilities by ensuring they have the right to a designated support person during healthcare services or stays. The bill amends two sections of the Minnesota Statutes (sections 144.651 and 144G.91) to explicitly define the role and rights of this designated support person, emphasizing that patients and residents can choose who accompanies them, including family members or friends, to provide emotional and physical support.
Contention
There may be points of contention regarding the bill, especially concerning the provisions about restricting the presence of designated support persons when necessary for the appropriate standard of care. Facilities may impose limitations if a designated support person behaves in a manner that could compromise safety. Critics of such provisions may raise concerns over the potential for misuse or the subjective nature of what constitutes a 'threatening manner', highlighting the importance of maintaining safety while respecting resident rights.
Electronic monitoring requirements modified, private enforcement of rights established, hospice bill of rights modified, licensed home care provider advisory council membership expanded, assisted living facility provisions modified, health care agent powers modified, and guardianship provisions modified.