Minnesota Senate Bill SF2388

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/23
• Refer: 3/2/23

Caption

Right of hospitalized patients to receive treatment from their own doctors establishment

Impact

The passage of SF2388 would significantly impact state laws by reinforcing patient autonomy in selecting healthcare providers. It would amend existing regulations to clarify the rights of patients, particularly regarding their ability to be treated by familiar physicians without the barrier of hospital privileges. This is expected to enhance continuity of care, an important aspect of patient health outcomes, especially in cases where ongoing treatment relationships exist between patients and their primary care physicians.

Summary

Senate File 2388 establishes the right of hospitalized patients to receive treatment from licensed physicians and other healthcare practitioners with whom they have a current relationship. This legislation aims to ensure that patients are not denied care from their longstanding doctors, even if those doctors do not have privileges at the hospital where the patient is admitted. The bill articulates definitions related to patient treatment and outlines the circumstances under which a patient or their advocate can request treatment from their personal physician during hospitalization.

Contention

While the bill seeks to solidify patient rights, it may face contention from healthcare institutions concerned about liability and the standards of care if non-hospital affiliated physicians provide treatment in their facilities. Supporters of the bill argue that it empowers patients and acknowledges the importance of provider continuity, while opponents may point to potential complications in patient safety and treatment oversight when outside physicians are involved in hospital care. The balance of patient rights and institutional regulations will be a key point of discussion as the bill moves forward.