DOH Issues Guidance on Family Health Care Decision Act

The Family Health Care Decisions Act (FHCDA) became effective on June 1, 2010.  The law applies to treatment decisions, including decisions to forgo life-sustaining treatment, for individuals in the nursing home who lack capacity and have not signed a healthcare proxy.  The attached Dear Administrator letter outlines the steps that nursing homes should take in order to comply with the new law.  In May, NYAHSA sponsored an audio-conference on the FHCDA.  The recording of that conference will be available to members shortly.  Contact Elliott Frost, efrost@nyahsa.org or at 518-449-2707, ext.140 with any questions or concerns.

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