SF2751

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to ensure that residents of long-term care facilities have the right to be accompanied by a designated support person. This expands patient rights and focuses on providing comfort and support during healthcare services.

Main Provisions

1. Right to a Designated Support Person:

   • Long-term care facility residents can choose at least one designated support person who can be present with them.
   • This is applicable to any care setting, including hospital stays.

2. Definition of Support Person:

   • A designated support person may include a spouse, partner, family member, or anyone related by affinity as chosen by the patient or resident.
   • Certified doulas and traditional midwives do not count towards the one support person limit, suggesting multiple support roles may exist concurrently.

3. Restriction Conditions:

   • Facilities can restrict or prohibit a support person's presence to meet appropriate care standards or if the support person is violent or threatening.
   • Any restriction is subject to the facility’s written grievance procedures.

4. Exemptions:

   • The provision does not apply to patients or residents in state-operated treatment programs.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill amends Minnesota Statutes (sections 144.651 and 144G.91) to formally include the presence of a designated support person as a right.
• It introduces a new requirement for assisted living facilities to allow at least one designated support person chosen by the resident.

Relevant Terms

• Designated support person
• Long-term care facility
• Patient rights
• Assisted living
• Health care services
• Grievance procedure