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SF 83

No Patient Left Alone Act Establishment

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Abeler and 1 co-sponsor

Minnesota bill guarantees hospital patients rights to have support persons present during medical procedures and hospitalization to ensure advocacy and reduce isolation.

Author added Abeler
#hospitalsandhealthcarefacilities
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SF 83

Legislative bill overview

SF 83, the "No Patient Left Alone Act," establishes protections ensuring patients in healthcare settings have access to support persons during medical procedures and hospitalizations. The bill appears designed to guarantee patient rights to companionship and advocacy during vulnerable medical moments, addressing concerns about patient isolation in healthcare facilities.

Why is this important

Patient support persons can help advocate for medical needs, provide emotional comfort, and serve as witnesses to medical decisions—factors that became particularly salient during COVID-19 visitation restrictions. This legislation addresses a real gap in patient rights and may improve healthcare outcomes and patient satisfaction, though implementation details significantly affect its practical impact.

Potential points of contention

  • Healthcare operational burden: Hospitals and clinics may argue that guaranteeing support person access complicates scheduling, increases liability, and strains already limited space in procedure rooms and intensive care units
  • Scope and limitations unclear: The bill's current form doesn't specify which procedures qualify, whether 24/7 access is required, or how facilities handle situations where support persons interfere with medical care
  • Infection control and safety protocols: Healthcare facilities may conflict with the bill over whether infection control measures, behavioral safety concerns, or emergency situations can restrict support person presence

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

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