Bill > S1520

This bill amends Massachusetts state law to guarantee patients the right to have a support person of their choosing present with them during medical treatment at healthcare facilities. Under the proposed legislation, this support person can be present with the patient 24 hours a day in patient-accessible areas, whether the patient is receiving inpatient or outpatient treatment or consulting with their healthcare provider. The bill includes two important limitations: healthcare facilities can temporarily restrict the support person's presence during surgeries or emergency interventions, and facilities cannot require the support person to be vaccinated as a condition of accessing the patient. By adding this provision to Section 70E of Chapter 111 of the General Laws, the bill aims to enhance patient comfort, support, and autonomy by allowing individuals to have a trusted companion with them during medical care, recognizing the potential emotional and psychological benefits of having a supportive person present during potentially stressful healthcare experiences.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1520