The proposed legislative bill, titled the "No Patient Left Alone Act," aims to guarantee the right of patients and residents in healthcare facilities to have a support person present during their care. This includes hospitals and nonacute care facilities like nursing homes. The support person can be someone needed for physical, mental, spiritual, or social support, including in end-of-life situations and also individuals providing personal services like hairdressing.

The bill mandates that healthcare facilities must allow at least one support person chosen by the patient or resident to be present during healthcare services, subject to certain conditions. Facilities are required to have clear written policies about these rights, including the limitations on access and procedures for handling complaints.

Violations of these provisions by a facility can lead to a civil penalty. Also noted is that the facility will not face legal liabilities simply for allowing a support person access according to the bill. Some specific exceptions apply, such as in operating rooms or in cases where a support person poses a risk to the health and safety of others.

In short, this bill aims to ensure that no patient or resident in a healthcare setting in Minnesota is compelled to be alone, reinforcing their rights to support and companionship during care.