This bill amends section 71-602 of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska, focusing on the requirements for standard forms and the release of health data and statistical research information. The amendments include the addition of provisions that emphasize the importance of collecting information for quality improvement alongside statistical research, aiming to reduce morbidity and mortality and enhance the quality of life. The bill also mandates that the forms used for registering vital events must align with those established by the United States Public Health Service, while allowing for deviations that can improve efficiency and protect public health.

Additionally, the bill specifies that all health data and statistical research information designated by the department will remain confidential, with its release limited to certain entities such as government health agencies and approved researchers. The department is required to publish analyses of the information on its website at least annually, ensuring that individual identities remain protected. The language in the bill replaces the previous allowance for the department to publish this information with a requirement to do so, thereby enhancing transparency while maintaining confidentiality. The original section 71-602 is repealed as part of this legislative update.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-602