New Jersey Assembly Bill A1971

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires long-term care facilities to annually review residents' proxy directives.

Impact

The implementation of A1971 could have significant implications for the operation of long-term care facilities. By mandating annual reviews of proxy directives, the bill elevates the importance of resident engagement in care planning, thus promoting more person-centered care. Facilities will need to establish processes to meet this requirement, which may involve additional staff training and changes in documentation practices. While these changes may lead to improved satisfaction among residents who desire a say in their care decision-making, facilities must balance these requirements with operational considerations and resource allocation.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1971 requires long-term care facilities in New Jersey to conduct annual reviews of residents' proxy directives. A proxy directive is a legal document that allows a resident to designate an individual to make decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so due to a lack of decision-making capacity. The bill aims to ensure that such directives remain accurate and reflect the current wishes of the residents, thereby enhancing their autonomy and decision-making rights in healthcare settings. The legislation is especially pertinent in the context of aging populations and increasing needs for long-term care services.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a positive move toward strengthening resident rights, there may be concerns about the feasibility of implementing regular reviews in all facilities, particularly those with limited resources. Some stakeholders might argue that such requirements could impose additional burdens on facilities already facing staffing shortages or financial constraints. Moreover, ensuring that residents understand the implications of their proxy directives and feel comfortable expressing their wishes during such reviews is crucial. As such, the dialogue surrounding A1971 recognizes both the necessity of safeguarding resident rights and the practical challenges of fulfilling these objectives in diverse long-term care settings.