The bill amends Section 23-17.5-30 of the General Laws to enhance the rights of nursing home patients by establishing and supporting the formation of independent family councils. It defines a family council as a group of family members, friends, or representatives of residents who can meet privately without facility staff. The bill mandates that nursing facilities provide contact information for residents' representatives to the family council, given written consent, and ensures that family members are informed of their rights regarding the council. Additionally, it prohibits nursing facilities from obstructing the formation of these councils and requires them to provide adequate meeting space and support for the councils. The facility must inform residents and their representatives about the existence of the family council and provide written information regarding their right to form one if it does not exist.

Furthermore, the bill introduces Section 23-17.5-38, which aims to prevent discrimination against indigent applicants for admission to nursing homes that receive state funding. It establishes a transparent waiting list process, requiring facilities to admit applicants on a first-come-first-served basis, maintain a dated list of applications, and provide written notice of their rights to applicants. The bill outlines conditions under which a nursing home may remove an applicant from the waiting list and specifies that no fees or agreements for payment can be required from indigent applicants. It also mandates that nursing homes record the number of Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay patients daily and make this information available upon request. Overall, the act seeks to protect the rights of nursing home residents and ensure fair treatment in the admission process.

Statutes affected:
787: 23-17.5-30