Requires general hospitals to establish policies/procedures regarding domestic violence; to establish training programs; to designate staff to coordinate services

3 Co-sponsors

• Ruben Diaz
• Liz Krueger
• John L. Sampson

Title of bill

An act to amend the public health law, in relation to hospital domestic violence policies and procedures

Purpose

This bill requires hospitals to establish policies and procedures regarding domestic violence.

Summary of provisions

Section one adds a new section 2805-t to the Public Health Law to I) require hospitals to establish policies and procedures regarding domestic violence; 2) establish ongoing training programs on domestic violence for all current and new employees; 3) designate a staff member to coordinate services to victims; and 4) contact community domestic violence service providers to coordinate services to victims. In addition, hospitals are required to offer to contact a local advocate when admitting or treating confirmed or suspected domestic violence cases.

Justification

The Senate Democratic Task Force on Women's Issues held public hearings across the State on the health implications of domestic violence. Many witnesses at these hearings, including survivors, advocates and health care professionals, testified regarding the need for hospitals to establish and implement policies and procedures for the identification, treatment and referral of victims of domestic violence. By requiring hospitals to implement formal procedures and training programs, including coordination with community service providers, this legislation will help improve the health care system's response to the battered women it serves.

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect January 1, 2010. Effective immediately, the addition, amendment and/or repeal of any rules or regulations necessary for the implementation of the foregoing section of this act on its effective date is authorized and directed to be made and completed on or before such effective date.