The bill amends section 50-24.4-29 of the North Dakota Century Code to update the regulations surrounding geropsychiatric facilities. It allows the department to select multiple skilled nursing facilities to operate units that provide geropsychiatric services, rather than being limited to just one. The criteria for admission have also been revised; instead of requiring an evaluation from the state hospital, an individual practicing within their professional scope can now determine if a person meets the criteria for skilled nursing and needs psychiatric behavioral health services. Additionally, admissions from the state hospital will be prioritized.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if the department finds the number of approved units insufficient to meet demand, it can select additional units based on the qualifications and capacity of the skilled nursing facilities. The previous restriction that the state hospital could not offer geropsychiatric services through a dedicated unit has been removed, allowing for more flexibility in service provision. Overall, these changes aim to enhance access to geropsychiatric services in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 50-24.4-29
Adopted by the Senate Human Services Committee: 50-24.4-29
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 50-24.4-29
PREFILED: 50-24.4-29