When the Virginia General Assembly convenes next week, it will consider a bill that will require hospitals to notify an individual when they are on “observation status” only and have not been formally admitted to a hospital. The hospital practice of “observation” wreaks havoc with individual’s insurance coverage and often results in high personal expenses for the patient. HB 1509 and SB 750 requires hospitals to give an individual notice that they have not been actually admitted, within 24 hours of their arrival. The hospital is required to advise the patient of the potential financial risks of being on “observation” status.
The disAbility law Center of Virginia will be monitoring developments in the legislature that may be of interest to people with disabilities. We are available to educate policy makers about the potential impact of legislative proposals. Please let us know of any legislative proposals or budget issues that you think we should be following. Contact us at info@dlcv.org or by calling 1-800-552-3962 or 804-225-2042.
The mission of the disAbility Law Center of Virginia is, through zealous and effective advocacy and legal representation, to protect and advance the legal, human and civil rights of people with disabilities, to combat and prevent abuse, neglect and discrimination, and to promote independence, choice and self-determination by persons with disabilities.