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H 2396

An Act relative to safe patient handling and mobility in certain health facilities

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Brady and 13 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill requires health facilities to implement safe patient handling programs with equipment, training, and protocols to prevent worker and patient injuries.

Reporting date extended to Friday, July 31, 2026
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Bill Summary · H 2396

Legislative bill overview

H 2396 establishes safe patient handling and mobility (SPHM) requirements for certain Massachusetts health facilities. The bill mandates implementation of programs, training, and equipment to protect both patients and healthcare workers from injuries during patient movement and care activities.

Why is this important

Healthcare workers face high rates of musculoskeletal injuries from manual patient handling, leading to worker compensation costs, staff shortages, and quality-of-care issues. Patients also benefit from safer handling protocols that reduce fall risks and complications. This legislation addresses a documented occupational health crisis affecting thousands of workers statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Healthcare facilities, particularly smaller hospitals and nursing homes, may face significant expenses for mechanical lifts, training programs, and staffing adjustments
  • Scope and coverage: Disagreement likely exists over which facility types are covered (hospitals only vs. nursing homes, assisted living, home care agencies) and whether the mandate is feasible across all settings
  • Staffing and workflow impacts: Concerns about whether SPHM protocols will slow patient care delivery, require additional staff, or create operational challenges in resource-constrained environments

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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