Bill > A03404

This bill amends the New York public health law to improve communication support for deaf, hard of hearing, and nonverbal patients during hospital admission. Specifically, the bill requires hospitals to allow an interpreter, parent, guardian, representative, or authorized helper to remain with the patient during the admission process until appropriate hospital staff capable of providing qualified interpretation is assigned. The bill modifies existing regulations to ensure that these patients have communication assistance, mandating that the Department of Health establish standards for supporting patients who cannot verbally communicate with healthcare personnel. These standards will be incorporated into the hospital's statement of patient rights and responsibilities, ensuring that deaf, hard of hearing, and nonverbal patients receive appropriate communication support from the moment they are admitted to the hospital. The legislation aims to address potential communication barriers and improve the healthcare experience for patients with hearing or verbal communication challenges by guaranteeing their right to have an interpreter present during the admission process.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3404