SF 2609 creates in statute an exception, subject to federal approval, to the prohibition against providing personal care assistance (PCA) services to a patient in an acute care hospital.

Sections 1 and 2 create cross-references to the PCA services exception in section 3.

Section 3 [256B.0659, subdivision 2a] provides a narrow exception to the prohibition against providing PCA services to an inpatient in a hospital. 

Paragraph (a) specifies the conditions under which a person may receive PCA services while an inpatient in a hospital. In order to be eligible for the exception, the hospital inpatient must be receiving acute medical care and have an assessed need for PCA services due to behaviors such as being physically aggressive, verbally aggressive, or resistive to care. The person must also have a care plan that specifies which PCA services the person will receive while in the hospital. An inpatient is not eligible for additional hours of PCA services while in the hospital.

Paragraph (b) limits the services a PCA may provide while providing services to an inpatient.  The PCA may only assist with redirecting behaviors and grooming.  A PCA may not perform any other services and supports. The PCA may provide nonbinding advice to health care professionals responsible for inpatient care.

Section 4 (256B.0659, subdivision 7, paragraph a) is editorial.

Paragraph (b), clause (6), adds a required component for the care plans of people with assessed needs due to behaviors. The care plan must include a description of the person’s individualized needs while an inpatient in a hospital.