BILL NUMBER: S9067A
SPONSOR: KRUEGER
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the public health law, in relation to requiring hospi-
tals and residential health care facilities to implement a pressure
ulcer prevention program
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
Requires hospitals and residential health care pressure ulcer prevention
program
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 (a) requires the development and implementation of pressure
ulcer prevention programs at every general hospital and residential
health care facility.
Section 1 (b) mandates the Commissioner to evaluate the current
reimbursement policy in regard to pressure ulcer prevention programs
within 120 days of the effective date. Additionally, within six months
of the effective date, the Commissioner will report on the current reim-
burse- ment options that would reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers.
Section 1 (c) requires the Commissioner to create a pressure ulcer
prevention center of excellence within the Department of Health by April
2, 2025.
Section 2 states the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Pressure ulcers, also referred to as bed sores, are injuries that occur
when prolonged pressure is applied to one spot on the skin harming the
underlying tissue. They are most common in those who are, for whatever
reason, physically unable to change positions when lying down. There are
more than 200,000 cases in the U.S. per year.
Pressure ulcers primarily affect individuals who are immobile or have
limited mobility due to medical conditions, age, or injury. Common risk
factors include prolonged bed rest, wheelchair use, malnutrition, and
dehydration.
The prevention of pressure ulcers will save significant resources across
the health care system. It will prevent countless hours of suffering for
patients, residents and their families.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
New bill
 
FISCAL IMPACT
No impact in SPY 24-25
 
EFFECTIVE DATE
Immediate

Statutes affected:
S9067: 2803 public health law
S9067A: 2803 public health law