Bill > H1822

This bill amends Chapter 123 of the General Laws concerning medical care for individuals in mental health facilities by requiring a comprehensive physical examination by a licensed physician upon admission, in addition to the existing requirement for a physical examination. Furthermore, it mandates that during admission examinations, periodic physical examinations, and on a continuing basis, physicians must identify individuals needing intermediate nursing services, skilled nursing services, chronic disease hospital services, or rehabilitation hospital services, as defined by the Department of Transitional Assistance, irrespective of whether these services are needed within an institutional setting. Upon identification, a report must be submitted to the commissioner, who will maintain statistical records. The Department of Mental Health will then be responsible for creating an individual service plan for each identified person within thirty days, adhering to established standards and procedures for mental health services, and this plan must address the individual's physical healthcare needs and outline services in the most appropriate setting for their age and disability, consistent with their mental health needs.