The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to improve patient access to clinical records across various healthcare settings, including mental health service providers, hospitals, and substance abuse service providers. Key provisions require these providers to furnish requested clinical records within 30 calendar days of receiving a written request, allowing patients or their legal representatives to inspect and obtain copies of their protected health information in a specified format. The bill establishes a fee structure for obtaining these records, limiting charges for electronic copies to $6.50 per request and prohibiting per-page fees for electronic records. Additionally, it mandates that service providers inform individuals of estimated fees in advance and prohibits charges for administrative or outsourcing costs.

Furthermore, the bill transfers the authority to issue subpoenas for patient records from the Agency for Health Care Administration to the Department of Health in certain circumstances and introduces new definitions and requirements for healthcare providers regarding the handling of medical records. It clarifies that specific records related to psychiatric care or substance abuse are governed by different regulations. The legislation also addresses the administration of blood and breath tests for alcohol and controlled substances, allowing individuals to obtain independent tests at their own expense and ensuring timely access to such tests. Overall, the bill aims to enhance patient rights, streamline access to medical records, and maintain confidentiality while ensuring reasonable and transparent fees. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
S 1140 Filed: 400.145, 456.057, 316.1932, 316.1933, 395.4025, 397.702, 429.294, 440.185, 456.47