Health - Accessibility of Electronic Advance Care Planning Documents
Impact
The enactment of HB 1073 is expected to significantly impact health care delivery in Maryland, particularly through improved communication regarding patient preferences at critical points of care. By integrating advance care planning documents within the healthcare information exchange, it promotes a uniform approach across facilities and providers. This approach is designed to enhance patient autonomy and decision-making processes, as patients’ advance directives will be readily available, facilitating compliance with their wishes during healthcare interventions.
Summary
House Bill 1073 focuses on enhancing the accessibility of electronic advance care planning documents in Maryland. The bill mandates established protocols for health care providers, facilities, and even managed care organizations to ensure these documents are manageable, particularly emphasizing electronic forms. This effort aims to streamline the process of creating, submitting, and maintaining advance directives, which outline individuals' healthcare preferences in situations where they may be unable to communicate their desires. Key provisions in the bill include responsibilities for health care facilities to identify existing planning documents upon a patient's admission and ensure their accessibility through a designated health information exchange.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 1073 appears generally supportive among health advocates and policymakers who recognize the importance of empowering patients to express their healthcare decisions clearly. Advocates believe that the bill will foster better communication between patients and healthcare providers, ultimately leading to improved care outcomes. However, there may be concerns around the privacy and security of sensitive health information and the technological requirements needed to implement the bill’s provisions effectively.
Contention
Some contention might arise related to the technological capabilities of all health care providers in Maryland to implement the electronic requirements set forth in HB 1073. There may be worries about the potential burden on smaller providers who may lack the necessary resources for compliance. Furthermore, stakeholders may debate the sufficiency of measures in place to protect the privacy of patients’ advance care planning documents as they move through the electronic systems.