The bill amends Chapter 23-4.6 of the General Laws, titled "Consent to Medical and Surgical Care," by adding a new section that establishes specific rights for patients recommended for hospice services. It stipulates that a patient has the right to have a caregiver, as defined in 23-17.27-1, present when hospice services are explained prior to the patient's consent. If practical, the caregiver should also be present during discussions of medical decisions with the hospice healthcare team. Additionally, the caregiver must be provided with all information regarding the patient's medication and treatment, including how entering hospice is anticipated to affect the prescribed medication and treatment, before the patient consents to hospice services.

Furthermore, the bill ensures that hospice patients have access to visiting nurse care at home and cannot be excluded from these services due to income or age limitations. This act will take effect upon passage.