Right for a patient or resident to choose to have a support person present while receiving care or services established.

HF 345 establishes a legal right for patients or residents in Minnesota healthcare facilities to have one chosen support person present during care. It requires licensed providers (like hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities) to allow this without restrictions, except for clinically necessary reasons, and to provide written policies explaining any limitations. Key provisions include ensuring minors' support persons aren't restricted by visitation hours, accommodating family during end-of-life care, and requiring virtual options if in-person visits aren't possible. Violations carry a $500 daily civil penalty. The bill directly affects patients/residents, their chosen support persons, and all licensed healthcare facilities in Minnesota.