STATEHOUSE (May 7, 2021) – Legislation sponsored by State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) to help ensure patients at hospitals and health care facilities can receive visitors during a declared public health emergency is now law.
Barrett said the new law requires hospitals, and health and residential care facilities to participate in the essential family caregiver program, allowing visitation of family members or caregivers for patients.
"This is a commonsense step establishing parameters on who can visit and for what situations, like when it's clear someone's lack of interaction with a loved one is causing more harm than good," Barrett said. "Accepting visitors can be physically and mentally beneficial to patients. In certain times, company and comfort is exactly what the doctor needs to order."
According to Barrett, through the essential family caregiver program, visitors are allowed if they are a resident's family member, legal representative, clergy, essential family caregiver or an individual who can meet the resident's needs in compassionate care situations. Barrett said examples include patients who are failing to thrive, struggling to adapt to the facility, diagnosed with Alzheimer's or dementia, or end-of-life situations.
Barrett worked with the author of the bill to craft language that includes hospitals in the legislation, in addition to residential care and health facilities.
Senate Enrolled Act 202 is now in effect. Visit iga.in.gov to learn more.
-30-
State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) represents House District 56,
which includes portions of Wayne County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
