Senate Bill No. 45, introduced by Senator Wheat, aims to amend current hospice care regulations by enacting R.S. 40:2183.1, which provides an exemption from licensure for nonprofit organizations that offer gratuitous end-of-life care to terminally ill patients in a home-like setting. To qualify for this exemption, organizations must meet specific criteria, including providing services at no cost, not receiving payments from Medicare or other insurance, and accommodating no more than three patients in individual private bedrooms. The bill also stipulates that these organizations will be considered the patient's residence for home hospice care purposes.

Additionally, the proposed law outlines the management of medication and care plans, stating that prescribed medications must be handled as they would be in a home setting. It allows designated caregivers from the organization to perform tasks similar to family caregivers, and licensed healthcare professionals can delegate responsibilities in accordance with the patient's care plan. Importantly, the bill provides immunity from disciplinary actions for healthcare professionals who delegate tasks in good faith. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.