Bill > HB1002

This bill aims to strengthen protections for residents in nursing facilities by prohibiting involuntary transfers or discharges to temporary housing like hotels or shelters, and requiring facilities to confirm the receiving facility is prepared to accept the resident before such a move. It also prevents facilities, particularly those certified by Medicaid, from forcing residents to pay privately for periods when they are eligible for Medicaid benefits or discharging them solely because they are Medicaid recipients. The bill mandates that residents receive at least 30 days' written notice before an involuntary discharge or transfer, detailing the reasons, the new location, and information about their rights, including how to request a hearing and where to find legal assistance from entities like Maryland Legal Aid. Furthermore, if any information in the discharge notice changes, a new notice must be provided, and specific waiting periods apply before the discharge can proceed, with different timelines depending on whether the new notice alters the discharge date or the location, and whether the new location is another skilled nursing facility or a different type of safe environment. The bill also enhances the requirements for a post-discharge plan of care, ensuring it includes the resident's new address and guarantees a safe, secure, and sustainable environment, with the plan developed in consultation with the resident, their representative, and relevant medical staff.