MN SF3017

Removes requirement that hospice patients be "terminally ill" and instead allows patients age 21 or younger diagnosed with a life-threatening illness contributing to shortened life expectancy to receive hospice services.

Modifies "hospice services" definition to include care for individuals with life-threatening illnesses contributing to shortened life expectancy, in addition to those in final stages of illness, dying, and bereavement.

Defines "respite care" as short-term inpatient care in facilities such as residential hospice facilities provided on an occasional basis to relieve family members or other caregivers.

Clarifies residential hospice facility definition to include facilities housing up to 21 hospice patients that meet federal Medicare certification regulations, with specific reference to a St. Paul facility on St. Anthony Avenue licensed as a 40-bed nursing home as of January 1, 2015.

Requires that hospice providers deliver all core services and maintain documentation by attending physician and hospice medical director regarding patient diagnosis and voluntary consent to admission.