The bill amends Section 23-17-19.1 of the General Laws in Chapter 23-17, entitled "Licensing of Healthcare Facilities," to include additional patient rights within healthcare facilities. The amendment introduces a new provision (19) that prohibits the use of a patient's photograph for office record keeping or any other unauthorized purposes by any licensed healthcare facility. It mandates that any healthcare facility instructed to remove such a photograph by the patient must do so within twenty-four hours of the request. Failure to comply with this provision will result in a fine of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation.

The bill also reiterates existing patient rights, such as the right to considerate and respectful care, the right to know the names of physicians responsible for their care, the right to refuse treatment, the right to privacy and confidentiality, and the right to be informed about and refuse participation in human-subjects research. It ensures that patients are informed about transfers to other facilities, involved in their treatment decisions, and provided with explanations of their medical bills. The bill emphasizes non-discrimination in care provision and the right to pain assessment and information about hospice care. The act would take effect upon passage, reinforcing the commitment to patient privacy and autonomy within healthcare settings.

Statutes affected:
7820: 23-17-19.1