Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to update and revise the requirements for assessments and monitoring of residents in assisted living facilities in Minnesota. These changes are designed to improve the quality and personalization of care services provided to residents.

Main Provisions

1. Initial Nursing Assessments:

   • Residents who are not receiving any assisted living services are exempt from the initial nursing assessment.
   • A nursing assessment is required for prospective residents who will receive services. This assessment, conducted by a registered nurse, will evaluate both physical and cognitive needs, resulting in a temporary service plan.
   • If in-person assessments are impractical due to distance or urgent circumstances, telecommunications methods meeting practice standards can be used.

2. Reassessment and Monitoring:

   • After initiating services, a reassessment must occur within 14 days, and subsequently, it should not exceed 90 days between assessments.
   • Changes in a resident's needs can necessitate more frequent assessments.

3. Focused Health Assessments:

   • These assessments must be conducted by either a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse.
   • They must address specific health-related regulations and be scheduled no later than 90 days from the last assessment, with annual assessments potentially replacing a scheduled reassessment.

4. Individualized Initial Reviews:

   • For residents receiving limited services, an initial review of their needs and preferences must occur within 30 days of starting services.
   • Regular monitoring must also occur every 90 days or sooner if needed.

5. Information on Long-term Care Consultation Services:

   • Facilities are required to inform prospective residents about available long-term care consultation services before a contract is signed or the resident moves in.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Reduction of mandatory initial assessments for non-service receiving residents.
• Introduction of technology in performing initial assessments when geographical or urgent circumstances are a factor.
• Adjusted timelines for reassessments and monitoring practices, promoting more responsiveness to residents' changing needs.

Relevant Terms

• Assisted living facilities
• Nursing assessment
• Reassessment and monitoring
• Telecommunications
• Long-term care consultation services
• Physical and cognitive needs