California’s Health and Safety Code requires hospitals to have a discharge policy for all patients, including those who are homeless. Hospitals must make prior arrangements for patients, either with family, at a care home, or at another appropriate agency, the code says.
AFL notice to GACHs, APHs, and SHs of the enactment of SB 1152, and the requirement to create a discharge planning policy and process specific to homeless patients. State of California—Health and Human Services Agency, California Department of Public Health
A report from the The Sacramento Bee highlights the egregious story of one man’s experience being discharged from the hospital to a homeless shelter with no vacancies. Unfortunately, this is not an uncommon problem in California and across the country. There have been reports of patients abandoned at shelters in only hospital gowns and some even without wheelchairs, prescription medicine, or critical aftercare resources and support.
If you, or someone you know, is in this situation and need help, please call the Health Consumer Alliance toll free hotline and speak to an advocate who can educate you on your fights at 888‑804‑3536.
