Proposal would require AEDs, training in assisted living communities

Assisted living communities and some other facilities in Illinois would be required to have automated external defibrillators on site — and to train all staff members in how to use them — under a proposed bill.

State Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield) introduced SB 84 / HB 1287, calling it a “critical bill” that will save lives. She said the Illinois Department of Aging approached her with the idea.

“When you have that type of facility, and you have individuals that are placed in your care, you really should be able to ensure their health and well-being is foremost in everybody’s mind,” Turner told WAND TV. 

Operators would have to pay for the cost of buying and placing the defibrillators on site. They also would be required to contract with or employ a physician as the AED medical director for the community; the person in this position would oversee and coordinate staff training, equipment maintenance and policies. And all staff members would be required to complete a course in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of AEDs that was approved by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.

LeadingAge Illinois said that although it understands the importance of ensuring that assisted living communities are equipped for emergencies and is committed to advocating for the best interests of residents, the legislation includes requirements that don’t come with accompanying state funding.

“Over the past five years, we have seen a number of high-quality communities close or sell due to financial strains, and unfunded mandates like this only serve to exacerbate the issue,” LeadingAge Illinois Director of Government Relations Jason Speaks told McKnight’s Senior Living. “It is essential that any new requirements, including the addition of AEDs and the additional requirements, come with appropriate funding to ensure that these vital services can continue to operate and provide the care residents deserve.”

Speaks added that AEDs are expensive, and many communities don’t have the financial resources to meet mandates such as this one on their own. 

In addition to assisted living communities, the bill would apply to nursing homes, mental and developmental disability facilities, and supportive living facilities.

Source: McKnights Seniorliving