Bill > H2029

This bill requires hospitals to inform patients placed in either inpatient or observation status about their placement within 24 hours of admission, unless the patient is discharged sooner. Observation status is a designation used by hospitals that can differ from inpatient admission and may impact a patient's insurance coverage, including Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance, for hospital services and subsequent care in a skilled nursing facility. The notification must be provided both orally and in writing, clearly stating the patient's status and advising them to contact their insurance provider to understand the potential financial implications of observation status. The written notice must also be signed and dated by the patient or their authorized representative, and the Department of Public Health will create regulations to ensure this section is put into practice.