Oklahoma House Bill HB1677

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Report Pass: 2/18/21
• Engrossed: 3/2/21
• Refer: 3/15/21

Caption

Health care; long-term care facilities; residents; compassionate caregivers; visitation; State Department of Health; emergency.

Impact

The bill introduces significant changes to existing statutes by requiring that long-term care facilities ensure access for compassionate caregivers under various health and safety precautions. If any visitation modifications are deemed necessary by the State Department of Health, facilities can adopt measures such as personal protective equipment requirements and health screenings for caregivers. Notably, it prohibits the total elimination of visitation, demanding that designated caregivers must always have access unless they fail to comply with reasonable safety measures.

Summary

House Bill 1677 focuses on long-term care facilities and assisted living residents, aiming to ensure the designation and access of compassionate caregivers. It mandates that each resident can designate one or more compassionate caregivers who may be family, friends, or other individuals that assist them with daily activities or provide emotional support. The bill places an emphasis on maintaining a high standard of accessibility for these caregivers, despite the challenges posed by health and safety regulations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1677 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among advocates for patient rights and family involvement in care. Proponents see the bill as a necessary step to enhance the quality of life for residents by allowing caregivers to maintain close ties while balancing public health concerns. However, there may be some reservations regarding the enforcement of compliance and the potential implications for facilities overwhelmed by management requirements.

Contention

While the bill is primarily aimed at protecting residents' rights to see their caregivers, there are underlying contentions about the potential strain it may put on long-term care facilities. Critics may raise concerns regarding the additional responsibilities and implications for health departments, questioning whether these facilities can sustainably manage the required precautions while providing compassionate care. The bill's emergency declaration underscores the urgency of addressing these issues, signaling that the law is crafted in response to immediate needs.