This bill amends existing law regarding the provision of medical records by health care providers. It establishes that all medical information in the possession of health care providers or their contracted third-party vendors is considered the property of the patient. The bill specifies that patients or their authorized requestors, which now include the patient's health care provider, are entitled to copies of their medical records upon request, in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The bill also outlines the costs associated with obtaining these records, including a maximum charge for electronic and paper copies, and stipulates that if redactions are requested, additional labor costs may apply.

A significant addition to the law is the requirement that when a health care provider requests a patient's medical records, the records must be provided within 14 days at no cost. This provision aims to streamline the process of record transfer between health care providers, ensuring timely access to necessary medical information. The bill also includes provisions for the timely delivery of records, stating that if records are not provided within 30 days, they must be given at no cost, and any incomplete records must also be provided without charge upon further requests. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 332-I:1
As Amended by the Senate: 332-I:1
As Amended by the House: 332-I:1
Version adopted by both bodies: 332-I:1
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 332-I:1