Dialysis centers would let patients bring a support person

Dialysis centers would have to let patients bring a chosen support person. The support person must be at least 18 and chosen by the patient to accompany them where staff and patients normally communicate. Centers may set reasonable health, safety, and infection control rules, but those rules cannot unnecessarily restrict or deny access. The act would take effect immediately if enacted.

Centers would have to protect patients' information and limit a support person's decision-making authority. Patients may name more than one support person but must choose one as the primary support person. A support person may help with communication, mobility, and decision-making, but may make decisions for the patient only if separately authorized by law. Centers may share protected health information only after the patient or an authorized representative gives written consent. The act would take effect immediately if enacted.

Centers would have to share their access rules, train staff, and follow state oversight. Centers would have to post a summary of their written policies, provide it on request, and train pertinent staff. Patients denied access could complain to the Department of Health. The Department of Health would investigate complaints and determine whether to impose penalties, fines, or corrective orders on centers that fail to comply. The act would take effect immediately if enacted.