Missouri House Bill HB1690

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 1/13/22
• Report Pass: 2/22/22

Caption

Creates provisions relating to visitation rights in hospitals and long-term care facilities

Impact

Should HB1690 be enacted, it will have a substantial impact on state laws governing patient rights and healthcare facility operations. It requires hospitals to accommodate at least two designated visitors for patients, thereby enhancing the emotional and psychological support systems for individuals undergoing medical treatment. This legislation aligns with a growing recognition of the importance of family engagement in the healthcare process and aims to bolster patient well-being during hospital stays.

Summary

House Bill 1690 seeks to amend the existing chapters related to hospitals and facilities in Missouri by establishing specific provisions regarding visitation rights. The bill mandates that hospitals and long-term care facilities cannot impose policies that limit the visitation rights of designated family members or friends for patients who are hospitalized or receiving treatment for longer than 24 hours. This provision is particularly significant during public health emergencies, ensuring that patients can maintain connections with their loved ones during crucial times.

Contention

One notable contention surrounding this bill could be potential safety concerns raised by healthcare facilities, especially in light of health crises like pandemics. While the bill does allow hospitals to enforce reasonable safety requirements, there may be debate about what constitutes as 'reasonable.' Facility administrators may argue that certain restrictions are necessary for the protection of all patients and staff, raising concerns about balancing safety measures with the need for family visitation rights.