HI HCR171

Requests the Attorney General to review the current guardianship process for hospital patients awaiting transfer to post-acute care facilities.

Current guardianship process takes up to 60 days for non-urgent cases, followed by up to 3 additional weeks for public guardian assignment, causing patients to remain in expensive acute care settings.

Directs the Attorney General to develop an expedited guardianship process for patients ready for discharge once a guardian is identified, as the existing emergency guardianship process is limited to medical emergencies only.

Requests the Attorney General to implement changes that do not require statutory amendments and to report findings and recommendations, including proposed legislation, by 20 days before the 2011 legislative session.

Requires distribution of certified copies to the Governor, Chief Justice, Attorney General, Directors of Health and Human Services, and the Healthcare Association of Hawaii.