NY A04717

Creates the Office of Hospice and Palliative Care Access and Quality within the Department of Health, headed by a director appointed by the commissioner

Office responsibilities include providing expertise on hospice and palliative care policy, facilitating communication between the department and care providers, and developing recommendations to improve care for patients with chronic or life-limiting illnesses

Directs the office to identify and eliminate barriers to hospice and palliative care services, support innovative healthcare delivery models, and establish quality and utilization metrics

Requires the office to ensure equitable access to hospice and palliative care services for underrepresented communities across New York State

Mandates an annual report to the governor and legislature beginning two years after the effective date, with the act taking effect 180 days after becoming law