Bill > H0756

This bill adds a new chapter to existing Idaho law to implement the Crisis Standards of Care Act. The key provisions include: 1. Giving the Director of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare the power to declare that crisis standards of care are activated in a region or statewide if conditions warrant it. This allows healthcare facilities to operate under crisis standards of care when resources are limited. 2. Requiring that all existing patient and resident rights be applied during crisis standards of care, including the right to visitation from essential caregivers. Facilities must follow guiding principles like focusing on saving the most lives and prohibiting discrimination. 3. Requiring the Director to report to the state legislature on the nature of any shortages and a mitigation plan, and requiring healthcare facilities operating under crisis standards to provide daily reports to the Department. 4. Establishing an Office of Patient Ombudsman within the Governor's office to advocate for the rights and needs of patients and residents negatively impacted by crisis standards of care.

Health and Social Services

Health and Welfare Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2022/legislation/H0756/