This bill mandates that home health care services be provided in a culturally sensitive manner, ensuring that the needs and traditions of patients and their families are respected. Specifically, it requires home care agencies to deliver services in a way that does not violate the patient's ethnic traditions or religious laws. This includes preparing meals according to religious dietary laws, administering treatments in accordance with religious practices, allowing patients to choose the gender of their caregivers, and ensuring that caregivers dress modestly and interact respectfully with patients and their families.
Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of accommodating the schedules of patients or their guardians, particularly concerning prayer times, religious holidays, and other significant cultural observances. The provisions outlined in the bill aim to enhance the quality of care for patients by recognizing and honoring their diverse backgrounds and beliefs. The act is set to take effect 180 days after its enactment.