HI HR129

Department of Health requested to develop protocols for hospitals to improve treatment of patients contemplating or attempting suicide.

Requested protocols must include one-on-one suicide counseling, 24/7 access to trained suicide counselors, and counseling provided in emergency rooms for at-risk patients.

Patients contemplating or who have attempted suicide cannot be discharged if homeless, or to jail/prison if they are not a threat to others.

Protocols must ensure patients are treated with respect, compassion, and dignity.

Department of Health must submit written report with recommended protocols and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2023 Regular Session convening.