Bill > S00489

This bill amends the New York State Public Health Law to improve how hospitals handle substance use disorders by requiring them to develop more comprehensive policies and procedures for identifying, assessing, and referring individuals with substance use disorders. The bill updates terminology from "alcoholism and substance abuse" to "addiction services and supports" and expands the scope of services hospitals must consider, including harm reduction, overdose prevention, and syringe exchange services. Hospitals will now be required to offer treatment, including medication-assisted treatment, within 72 hours of diagnosing a substance use disorder, and must immediately address withdrawal symptoms. If a hospital cannot directly provide substance use disorder services, they must refer the individual to an appropriate service provider that can offer services within 72 hours. The bill also mandates that hospitals train their healthcare staff on these new policies, inform patients about available treatment services, and document referral efforts in the patient's medical record. These changes aim to improve access to timely and comprehensive substance use disorder services, recognizing the critical importance of immediate intervention and support for individuals struggling with addiction.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S489