Bill > H1745

This bill seeks to establish a comprehensive study of emergency medical care for individuals in custody by requiring the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to collect and report detailed data on medical emergencies and care provided to people who are arrested, in transit to, or incarcerated in correctional facilities. The bill defines key terms such as "emergency medical condition" (a serious health situation that could result in significant bodily harm if not promptly treated) and "custody" (detention during arrest or incarceration), and highlights the current lack of systematic data on medical care in custody settings. The proposed annual report, to be submitted to the Massachusetts Attorney General, will include information on the frequency, nature, and timing of emergency medical care, such as emergency department admissions, hospitalizations, EMS activations, and details about medical interventions, including a specific section on psychiatric crises. The legislation is motivated by findings that a significant number of custodial deaths may be preventable with timely and competent emergency medical care, and aims to improve understanding of medical care in custody, build trust in law enforcement, and potentially reduce litigation costs associated with poor medical outcomes.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1745