BILL NUMBER: S8226

SPONSOR: KRUEGER
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the public health law, in relation to requiring the
health care and wellness education and outreach program of the depart-
ment of health

 
PURPOSE:

To make educational information on pressure ulcers available in order to
help raise awareness of this health issue, including how to treat pres-
sure ulcers at home, and to help family members make informed decisions
about the care of their loved ones.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section 1: Amends subdivision 1 of section 207 of the Public Health Law
to add pressure ulcers to the list of healthcare issues addressed by the
Health Care and Wellness Education and Outreach Program.

              

Section 2: Establishes the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

Pressure ulcers, also known as pressure injuries or bedsores, are cate-
gorized by stage, range in severity, and require different types of
treatment based on progression of the injury. Pressure ulcers result
from prolonged pressure on the skin; children and adults who have diffi-
culty shifting their position, and who spend a majority of time in a
chair or bed are particularly susceptible to developing pressure ulcers.
As a result, patients in hospitals and nursing homes, and individuals
receiving medical care at home are especially prone.

Pressure ulcers can become very serious and may even lead to death.  The
State of New York has worked to reduce the development and severity of
pressure injuries in hospitals and nursing homes by establishing regu-
lations and requirements for healthcare professionals in the identifica-
tion, treatment, and reporting of pressure ulcers. Family members and
loved ones of people receiving medical care, however, are less likely to
recognize the formation of pressure ulcers and know what action to take.

Posting educational information on pressure ulcers on the New York State
Department of Health website will help to educate the general public and
increase the capacity of loved ones to recognize potential pressure
injuries, as well as learn more about prevention, how to treat, and when
to seek medical care. Information will include federal and state regu-
lations and standards of practice related to treatment of pressure
ulcers in hospitals and nursing homes to help family members of patients
know what to expect and to make informed decisions related to the care
of their loved ones.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

New bill

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

None.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.