New Jersey Senate Bill S956

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/22
• Refer: 1/31/22

Caption

Authorizes hospital patient with developmental disabilities to have designated family member, guardian, direct support professional, or other caregiver accompany patient throughout hospital stay.

Impact

The enactment of S956 would significantly impact hospital policies regarding patient support. It mandates that hospitals provide immediate opportunities for patients with developmental disabilities to designate their companions upon admission. The bill also stipulates that if a patient is unconscious or incapacitated, a guardian or parent is allowed to make the designation. This regulation will alter hospital admission protocols and bolster the support systems available to vulnerable patients, enhancing their hospital experiences during often stressful times.

Summary

Senate Bill S956 aims to enhance the rights of hospital patients who have developmental disabilities in New Jersey by ensuring they can be accompanied by a designated person throughout their hospital stay. The bill allows patients, or their legal guardians, to choose family members, caregivers, or guardians to provide support during hospitalization, thereby recognizing the importance of personal assistance in healthcare settings for those with developmental disabilities. This legislative effort builds on existing patient rights while addressing specific needs related to developmental disabilities in medical environments.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed as a positive progression for patient rights, concerns may arise about the balance between providing support and ensuring patient safety during critical medical procedures. Specifically, the bill restricts designated accompanying persons from being present during surgical procedures where their presence might present dangers, hence sparking discussions about when and how to manage such situations. Stakeholders may debate the necessity and management of these designations, especially in cases of emergency admissions or rapid decision-making scenarios.