Bill > S09875

This bill allows individuals receiving hospice services, which is care focused on comfort and quality of life for those with serious illnesses, to enroll in managed long term care plans, which are programs that coordinate various health and long-term care services for eligible individuals. It clarifies that electing hospice care, whether through Medicare or Medicaid, will not automatically make someone ineligible for a managed long term care plan, and it requires the commissioner to provide guidance to these plans, local social services districts, and hospice programs on how to manage enrollment, ensure continuity of care, and coordinate services for these individuals. Additionally, the bill mandates that the department establish standards for coordinating care between managed long term care plans and hospice programs, including aspects like shared care planning, communication protocols, and clarification of responsibilities for services like personal care and transportation, ensuring that these entities exchange necessary information to maintain seamless care for patients while adhering to privacy laws.