Adds penalties for violations of provisions relating to compassionate care visits in health care facilities
The bill significantly impacts existing visitation policies in healthcare facilities in Missouri by enforcing standards that promote compassionate visits. Facilities must adjust their policies to align with this bill, which allows at least two visitors simultaneously during visitation hours. It also requires facilities to ensure that they comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and provide reasonable accommodations for effective communication. This law aims to improve patient wellbeing by ensuring they are not alone during critical times, particularly at the end-of-life stages.
House Bill 2869 introduces the 'Compassionate Care Visitation Act' and 'No Patient Left Alone Act,' which aims to establish clear guidelines for visitation in healthcare facilities. The bill mandates that healthcare facilities allow specified compassionate care visitors, such as family or close friends, to have in-person contact with patients or residents during designated visiting hours. It requires that these hours be no less than six hours daily, accommodating evenings, weekends, and holidays, which addresses concerns about patient loneliness and emotional support during treatment.
Despite the overall supportive intention, some concerns have been raised regarding the implementation of these visitation rules. Critics express worry over the feasibility of enforcing the bill’s provisions amidst varying sizes and capacities of healthcare facilities. Specific limitations on visitor numbers based on facility space, as well as potential restrictions on children, may lead to contention around patients' rights versus facility capabilities. Additionally, the penalties outlined for facilities that violate the visitation rules could pose challenges, raising questions about accountability and enforcement without compromising patient care.