ATLANTA (AP) – Lawmakers in Georgia’s state House are considering legislation that would require hospitals and nursing homes to allow visitors, after many cut visitor access because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Rep. Ed. Setzler, a Republican from Acworth, is the chief sponsor of House Bill 290. Setzler said in a recent committee hearing that the bill recognizes that connection with family and friends can be a key component of patient wellness.
“Health care inextricably includes wellness, mental health, activity, purpose, engagement of people with familiarity, connection and individual advocacy,” Setzler said.
The measure would require that hospitals, nursing homes and other long-term care facilities allow patients to have two visitors for up to two hours per day.
It would only be applicable to patients that are in a facility for more than 24 hours, and the facilities would be able to set requirements for visitors, such as a mask or testing requirement. If passed, the legislation would take effect July 1.