Bill > S01558

This bill amends the New York public health law to introduce the concept of an "essential visitor" for hospital patients, allowing patients to designate a family member, health care proxy, or other individual to provide support and act as an advocate when the patient has been hospitalized for more than two days. The essential visitor would be granted unrestricted access to the patient and would have specific rights and responsibilities, including helping with basic needs like eating and dressing when staff is unavailable, providing emotional support, communicating patient needs to medical staff, and potentially requesting changes to the patient's care plan. The bill also allows hospitals to implement precautionary measures for essential visitors, such as health screenings or requiring personal protective equipment, to ensure the safety of patients and staff. Essentially, this legislation aims to improve patient care and support by enabling a designated individual to provide additional assistance and advocacy during a hospital stay.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1558