The bill amends various sections of Vermont's statutes related to healthcare definitions and patient rights. It introduces new definitions for "Advanced practice registered nurse" (APRN), "physician," and "physician assistant," specifying that these individuals must be licensed under the relevant chapters of Vermont law. Additionally, the term "patient" is updated to refer to "an individual" rather than "a person." The bill also modifies the language throughout the Patients Bill of Rights to replace gender-specific pronouns with the term "the patient," ensuring clarity and inclusivity in the rights outlined for patients receiving care.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the responsibilities of healthcare providers, including physicians, physician assistants, and APRNs, in coordinating patient care and obtaining informed consent. It mandates that patients be informed of their rights and the identity of their care providers, and it establishes that failure to comply with these provisions may lead to disciplinary actions against the respective healthcare professionals. The act is set to take effect upon passage, enhancing the legal framework surrounding patient care and rights in Vermont.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-1851, 18-1852, 18-1905
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 18-1851, 18-1852, 18-1905
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 18-1851, 18-1852, 18-1905
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 18-1851, 18-1852, 18-1905
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 18-1851, 18-1852, 18-1905
As Enacted: 18-1851, 18-1852, 18-1905