The bill amends the Kansas Lay Caregiver Act, requiring the Department of Health and Environment to audit hospitals for compliance with the act and report the findings to the legislature annually starting in 2026. Key definitions are provided, including "aftercare," "caregiver," "discharge," and "patient," which clarify the roles and responsibilities of caregivers in relation to patients post-discharge. The bill mandates that hospitals offer patients or their legal guardians the opportunity to designate a caregiver upon admission and outlines the hospital's obligations to notify and consult with the designated caregiver regarding discharge instructions and aftercare needs.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the designation of a caregiver does not confer any decision-making authority on behalf of the patient and does not create a private right of action against hospitals or caregivers for any acts or omissions. The existing section of K.S.A. 65-431a is repealed, and the new provisions aim to enhance the support provided to patients through their caregivers while ensuring that hospitals comply with these requirements.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-431a