In life, we all assume a variety of roles, from son or daughter to spouse, parent and grandparent. An additional role many Iowans may take on — as our families and we all age — is that of caregiver. As a loved one is released from a hospital, it is often up to the family caregiver to ensure bandages are maintained, injections are administered and that doctors’ orders are followed. It can be a huge job. But, in the past, hospitals were not required to educate or even instruct caregivers entrusted with the well-being of their loved ones.

Thanks to the Iowa Legislature, this situation has change with the passing on March 28 of the 2019 Iowa Care Act (SF 210), a no-cost, common-sense bill that will help Iowa’s 317,000 family caregivers. Upon the signature of Gov. Reynolds, hospitals will now be required to provide a designated family caregiver with the information and care instructions to help ensure that their loved one receives the in-home care that they need, following hospitalization.

Being a caregiver can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do, especially when you have the knowledge you need to do the job well. Thanks to Iowa lawmakers, more loved ones being discharged from the hospitals have an improved chance of quality care and better health now in the home.