Bill > S4430

This bill requires hospitals in New Jersey to make an effort to contact a patient's family within 72 hours of the patient's release following a drug overdose treatment, with two specific conditions: first, the hospital must have contact information for a family member, and second, the notification must comply with existing federal and state privacy laws. The bill defines a "hospital" as an acute care facility licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health, and it aims to help families become aware when a loved one has experienced a potentially life-threatening medical event. By mandating this notification process, the bill seeks to support family awareness and potentially enable additional support or intervention for individuals who have suffered a drug overdose. The legislation will take effect immediately upon enactment, applying to hospitals across the state and providing a standardized approach to communicating critical health information while respecting patient privacy protections.

Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4430