Bill would require Pa. hospitals to keep caregivers in the loop

Advocates are pushing a Pennsylvania proposal to make caregivers a more central part of a patient’s care.

 

The AARP was joined by a major hospital industry group Tuesday at the Capitol in Harrisburg for a rally in support of the state House measure which, among other things, mandates that caregivers receive thorough instruction from the hospital that is discharging their loved ones.

Jim Palmquist, AARP Pennsylvania state president, said hospitals should do a little more hand-holding with caregivers.

“They’re an essential component of helping older American adults remain in their home, which is exactly where they want to be,” said Palmquist.

Andy Carter, president of the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania, said the House proposal offered a “common sense” mandate that would help hospitals in the long run. By keeping caregivers in the loop on their loved one’s medical needs, Carter said, hospitals could prevent unnecessary return trips.

The proposal passed the House in a nearly unanimous vote in June. It is before a Senate committee.