Florida lawmakers have proposed measures that would prohibit hospitals and long-term care facilities from limiting visitation.
Both houses of the Florida Legislature are considering bills that present provisions to help the families of patients have better access to their loved ones, even in a health crisis, like the COVID-19 pandemic.
"COVID cannot be used as a excuse to deny patients basic rights, and one of the rights of being a patient, I think, is having your loved ones present," Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) said, according to WUSF Public Media.
Having a designated caregiver for residents, who would be allowed to visit for two hours a day in long-term care facilities, is among the provisions that have been suggested.
DeSantis voiced his support for visitation protections. Advocates also feel strongly that it’s more important than ever that families be allowed at the bedside with their loved ones, WUSF Public Media reported.
The proposals allow facilities to restrict general visitation in health emergencies, but there are exceptions. These provisions would apply to hospitals, health care centers and long-term care facilities.
