Bill > HB3645

This bill amends existing Oklahoma law regarding hospice care requirements, specifically focusing on who can authorize a patient's admission to hospice when a legal guardian, power of attorney, next-of-kin, or health care proxy is unavailable. Previously, admission required an order from a licensed physician and the patient's or family's consent. Now, in situations where no designated representative is available, the bill allows a licensed long-term care administrator who has overseen the patient's care for at least six months, two Oklahoma-licensed physicians who have reviewed the patient's medical history, or the patient's primary care physician who has managed their care for at least six months, to elect hospice benefits on behalf of the patient, provided two physicians have determined hospice eligibility is necessary and in the patient's best interest. The bill also specifies an effective date of November 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb3645&Session=2600