SB95 Alabama 2015 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

J.T. WaggonerSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2015

Title

Health Department, Palliative Care and Quality of Life, State Advisory Council and program established, appointed by State Health Officer, advisory capacity to department

Summary

SB95 creates a State Advisory Council on Palliative Care and Quality of Life and a statewide palliative care information and education program to improve awareness and access to palliative care in Alabama.

What This Bill Does

The act establishes a cross-disciplinary advisory council within the State Health Department to guide palliative care efforts. It designates how members are chosen, sets terms, ensures diverse representation, and requires council meetings. It also creates a statewide information and education program to publish resources, provide continuing education, and share palliative care information with the public, providers, and facilities, while clarifying that the information is not a standard of care or liability.

Who It Affects

• Palliative care professionals and organizations that appoint council members (hospitals, nursing homes, home care, durable medical equipment, pharmacy, hospice groups) who will shape guidance and policy.
• Patients, families, and health care providers who will access palliative care information and education via the Department’s website and program.

Key Provisions

• Establishes the State Advisory Council on Palliative Care and Quality of Life within the State Health Department, with members from medicine, nursing, social work, pharmacy, spiritual care, patient/family representatives, and designated associations; terms are three years; council elects a chair and vice chair; meets at least twice yearly; members do not receive compensation.
• Creates a statewide Palliative Care Information and Education Program to disseminate information and resources to the public, providers, and facilities; publishes educational materials, continuing education opportunities, and guidance on palliative care delivery across home, inpatient, outpatient, and community settings; requires consultation with the Council and states that information does not set a standard of care or alter liability.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Health