This bill establishes minimum staffing and reporting requirements for long-term care facilities that specialize in the care of patients with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. The Commissioner of Health is tasked with creating a training program for healthcare providers in these facilities, focusing on memory care therapy and specific challenges associated with caring for Alzheimer's patients. Additionally, the bill mandates that at least one staff member trained in memory care be present at all times, and facilities must annually certify compliance with memory care practices, which include providing enrichment activities for patients.

Furthermore, the bill requires long-term care facilities to maintain daily records of staff providing direct care to Alzheimer's patients and to offer clear information to the public regarding activities and safety measures in place for these patients. It also mandates that facilities submit an annual report to the Department of Health detailing the administration of antipsychotic medication to patients, ensuring oversight of potentially harmful prescribing practices. The Commissioner of Health will contract with a third party to review these practices and create a publicly available report on the usage of antipsychotic medications in these facilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2M-7, 26:2M-7.1