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Bill

Bill

A 2955

"Patient Protection Act"; establishes requirements concerning the transfer and referral of certain patients receiving health care services.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tennille McCoy

New Jersey bill requiring healthcare providers to establish documented procedures for patient transfers and referrals to ensure continuity of care and patient notification.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Health Committee
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Bill Summary · A 2955

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 2955 establishes procedural requirements for how healthcare providers must handle patient transfers and referrals. The bill sets standards for documentation, notification, and continuity of care when patients move between healthcare facilities or practitioners. It aims to protect patients during the transition between care providers.

Why is this important

Patient transfers and referrals are vulnerable moments where medical information can be lost, care gaps occur, or patients lose continuity of treatment—potentially leading to adverse health outcomes. Clear legal requirements ensure providers coordinate effectively and keep patients informed. This directly affects patient safety and the quality of healthcare transitions across New Jersey's healthcare system.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance burden: Healthcare providers may face increased administrative costs and complexity implementing new transfer protocols, particularly smaller practices or rural facilities
  • Specificity gaps: The bill summary doesn't clarify which patient transfers are covered (emergency vs. elective, inpatient vs. outpatient) or what specific requirements apply, potentially creating confusion during implementation
  • Liability exposure: New transfer requirements could create liability if providers fail to meet standards, raising malpractice insurance concerns and defensive medicine practices

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

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