Bill > SF3263

This bill, called the William Shegstad Healthcare Advocates Act, establishes new rights and protections for patients in Minnesota. The key provisions include: 1. Patients have the right to have a patient advocate (such as a family member or authorized representative) present while receiving treatment in a clinic or hospital setting, subject to some restrictions. 2. Health care providers must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, including ensuring patients who are confused or hard of hearing can view the provider's mouth when wearing personal protective equipment. 3. Patients have the "right to try" alternative early treatment options, even if the medications or procedures are not FDA-approved, regardless of their vaccination status. 4. Facilities that receive Medicare or Medicaid cannot deny patients care based on vaccination status. 5. Vaccination status mandates for healthcare workers that create staffing shortages are prohibited, and facilities must report daily bed counts and staffing numbers. 6. Providers who prescribe off-label medications or treatments at the patient's request cannot face disciplinary action, unless required by federal law. 7. The bill imposes civil penalties on facilities for creating staff shortages due to vaccination mandates, and for discriminating against employees or patients based on vaccination status.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF3263&ssn=0&y=2023