This bill aims to limit the fees that hospitals and health care professionals can charge patients and authorized third parties for copies of medical and billing records. Under the proposed legislation, the total cost for reproducing a medical record, regardless of its storage format (electronic, microfilm, or paper), is capped at $50, which includes any additional administrative fees. Furthermore, the bill prohibits any fees for copies of billing records requested by patients or their authorized representatives. This change addresses the current statute, which allows hospitals to charge up to $200 for such requests and includes various administrative fees that can add to the financial burden on patients.

Additionally, the bill mandates that hospitals and health care professionals establish policies to ensure access to medical records for patients who cannot afford the fees. It also specifies that no fees should be charged to low-income patients who provide proof of their financial status or to not-for-profit organizations and pro bono attorneys representing patients. The intent of the bill is to enhance access to medical records for New Jersey residents, particularly for those who may struggle with the existing high costs associated with obtaining their medical information.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2H-5