Bill > S1234

This bill seeks to strengthen patients' rights by requiring hospitals to provide complete information to patients upon placement into inpatient or observation status. The key provisions are: (1) hospitals must inform patients whether they have been admitted as an inpatient or are in observation status; (2) hospitals must inform patients that observation status may affect their Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance coverage for hospital services, medication, and skilled nursing facility care following discharge; and (3) hospitals must recommend that patients contact their insurance plan to better understand the implications of being in observation status versus inpatient admission. This additional notice requirement is meant to complement existing federal requirements under Public Law 114-42.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S1234