Pennsylvania Statutes Title 35 P.S. Health and Safety § 10228.2. Definitions

The following words and phrases when used in this act shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Assisted living residence.” As defined in section 1001 of the act of June 13, 1967 (P.L. 31, No. 21),  1 known as the Public Welfare Code.

“Benevolent gesture.” Any action, conduct, statement or gesture that conveys a sense of apology, condolence, explanation, compassion or commiseration emanating from humane impulses.

“Health care provider.” A primary health care center; a personal care home licensed by the Department of Public Welfare  2 under the act of June 13, 1967 (P.L. 31, No. 21),  3 known as the Public Welfare Code; a person, including a corporation, university or other educational institution licensed or approved by the Commonwealth to provide health care or professional medical services as a physician, certified nurse midwife, podiatrist, hospital, nursing home or birth center; or an officer, employee or agent of any of them acting in the course and scope of employment.

“Relative.” A patient's spouse, parent, stepparent, grandparent, child, stepchild, grandchild, brother, sister, half brother, half sister or spouse's parent or any person who has a family-type relationship with a patient.

“Representative.” Any legal guardian, attorney, agent designated to make medical decisions under a power of attorney over health care matters, health care representative who is authorized to make health care decisions for a principal under applicable law, surrogate designated in an advance directive for health care or person recognized in law or custom as a patient's agent.