Posted: | February 28, 2017 02:06 PM |
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From: | Representative Ron Marsico |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Nursing Facility Expulsion Legislation |
A few years ago, I was contacted by a constituent who brought to my attention some very serious shortfalls that exist in our current statutes as they pertain to the care of individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and related disorders. This individual’s mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, was actually “expelled” from a nursing facility, without adequate notification and recourse. She exhibited severe behavioral changes that developed as a direct result of her disease and her family was totally caught off guard and unprepared for the action that was taken by the facility. It is my understanding that, while the current regulations call for “prior notification” in “reasonable advance” of an impending transfer or discharge, the needs and welfare of the expelled resident are not always addressed or considered. In addition, the resident’s family or other responsible party must be included in the decision-making process in order that they can be prepared to deal with the situation in an appropriate manner. The legislation I am re-introducing will require a multi-disciplinary approach for long-term care facilities to address the needs of Alzheimer’s and dementia residents and their families. In addition, my bill will establish a specific notification procedure that providers must use in dealing with situations such as that of my constituent. Please join me in cosponsoring this important piece of legislation. |