HB 5499 Summary

• Authorizes hospice organizations licensed by the Department of Public Health to operate hospice facilities or residences providing inpatient services, or to provide hospice home care services for terminally ill persons.

• Requires hospice facilities and residences to maintain a homelike atmosphere and cooperate with the Commissioner of Public Health to develop licensure and operational standards.

• Effective January 1, 2008, organizations seeking initial hospice licensure must agree to provide 24-hour hospice care services across all settings including private homes, nursing homes, and residential care facilities, and demonstrate they have qualified personnel.

• Prohibits any organization from using the title "hospice" or "hospice care program" unless it is licensed to provide hospice services by the Department of Public Health.