The proposed bill, titled the "No Patient Left Alone Act," establishes the right of patients and residents in healthcare facilities to have a support person present during the receipt of health care services. It defines key terms such as "facility," "patient," "resident," and "support person," and mandates that facilities allow at least one support person of the patient's or resident's choice to be physically present, with certain exceptions outlined in the bill. Facilities are required to have written policies regarding this right, inform patients and residents of their rights, and ensure that support persons have full visitation privileges, while also accommodating specific needs in end-of-life situations.
Additionally, the bill introduces a civil penalty of $500 for facilities that knowingly or willfully violate these provisions. It outlines limitations on the rights of patients and residents, ensuring they cannot be forced to waive their rights or consent to additional conditions for having a support person present. The bill also specifies circumstances under which a facility may restrict access to support persons, such as in emergency situations or if the support person poses a risk. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the compassionate care of patients and residents by ensuring they have the support they need during healthcare services.