Unconscious patients in the ICU

HB 4344, the "Michael Brandon Cochran Act," requires West Virginia hospitals with intensive care units (ICUs) to administer C-peptide blood tests for unconscious patients or those with blood glucose levels at or below 49 mg/dl (regardless of diabetes diagnosis). It also mandates post-mortem C-peptide testing if a patient dies after showing symptoms like brain damage, seizures, or disorientation during ICU care. Hospitals failing to comply face $10,000 fines per violation, while a new grant program helps cover testing costs and staff training for participating hospitals. The bill establishes a dedicated fund to support these requirements, using state funds and private donations.