Thursday, April 25, 2013
OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is encouraging support for House Bill 1403, which would establish the Nondiscrimination in Treatment Act. The bill is aimed at preventing healthcare providers from denying life-extending treatments based on age or probable quality of life.
“No person should ever be denied life-saving care regardless of age or existing health conditions,” said Doak. “Unless this bill is signed into law, treatment for the elderly, who are valued citizens in our society, could be prevented through discrimination.”
The bill, authored by Sen. Anthony Sykes, R-Owasso and Rep. Dennis Johnson, R-Duncan, is described as preventing people from being denied care that they want and need to extend their lives based on a third party’s view of the patient’s life or future complications.
“It is an unfortunate fact that elderly, disabled and terminally ill patients could be overridden in their advance directives,” continued Doak. “This legislation is necessary as protection to those who deserve to have their desires upheld when it comes to healthcare treatment.”
House Bill 1403 has passed the state House and Senate and is currently awaiting action by Gov. Mary Fallin.
About the Oklahoma Insurance Department
The Oklahoma Insurance Department, an agency of the State of Oklahoma, is responsible for the education and protection of the insurance-buying public and for oversight of the insurance industry in the state.
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For more information contact:
Kelly Collins
(405) 522-0683