This bill amends the Louisiana Revised Statutes to rename the "No Patient Left Alone Law" to the "Don Scoggins Law" and introduces new provisions regarding visitation policies at certain healthcare facilities. It requires these facilities to designate an essential caregiver for each patient, allowing for daily in-person visitation by this caregiver in addition to any other visitation provisions. The bill also specifies that the designated essential caregiver is not required to provide advance notice for visits and cannot be compelled to provide necessary care to the patient.

Additionally, the bill repeals previous requirements for the publication of visitation policies and establishes that visitation policies must include a written agreement from the designated essential caregiver to adhere to the facility's rules. It allows for the suspension of visitation rights if the caregiver violates these policies. Furthermore, the bill ensures that access to a religious or spiritual support person is included alongside the designated essential caregiver, enhancing the support available to patients in healthcare facilities.

Statutes affected:
HB976 Original:
HB976 Engrossed:
HB976 Enrolled:
HB976 Act 666: