Bill > H2559

This bill amends Massachusetts state law to guarantee patients the right to have a support person of their choosing present with them at health care facilities, with some specific provisions. Under the new law, a support person would be allowed to be present with the patient 24 hours a day in patient-accessible areas of a health care facility or provider's office during inpatient or outpatient treatment or consultations. Healthcare facilities are permitted to temporarily restrict the support person's presence only during surgeries or emergency interventions. Importantly, the bill explicitly prohibits healthcare facilities from requiring the support person to receive any vaccinations as a condition of accessing the patient. This legislation appears aimed at enhancing patient comfort, autonomy, and emotional support during medical care by ensuring individuals can have a trusted person accompany them throughout their healthcare experience, with minimal restrictions.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2559