Bill > SB429

This bill mandates that nursing homes must notify residents, their families or legal representatives, and the Department of Health if required physician visits, as outlined by federal regulations (42 CFR § 483.30(c)), do not occur. It also requires nursing homes to conduct comprehensive assessments of each resident's needs, covering medical history, functional status, treatments, psychosocial well-being, and other factors, within 14 days of admission, promptly after a significant change in condition, and at least annually, with a review and update of the resident's care plan every 92 days, all coordinated and certified by a registered nurse and involving other health professionals and the resident or their family. Furthermore, the bill directs the Department of Health and the State Health Commissioner to enhance nursing home oversight and accountability by improving care quality and resident protection, expanding the workforce and filling inspector positions within the Office of Licensure and Certification through dedicated recruitment efforts and a public dashboard, accelerating staff training and onboarding with a dedicated training manager, and exploring ways to reduce administrative burdens through automation, with the State Health Commissioner required to submit an annual report with recommendations for ongoing improvements.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB429