Bill > S1281

This bill amends Section 140 of Chapter 165 of the Massachusetts General Laws to allow nursing homes, rest homes, and other long-term care facilities to administer scheduled psychotropic medications (medications that affect mental state and behavior) without prior written consent in certain cases. These include when a resident is admitted from a hospital where they were already receiving the medication, in emergency situations, and for hospice care patients who need immediate administration to prevent distress, discomfort, or pain. In these cases, the facility must obtain verbal consent prior to administration and written consent as soon as practicable, but no later than 3 days. If written consent cannot be obtained within 3 days, the dosage must be reduced and the medication terminated.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S1281