The proposed bill seeks to enhance patients' rights regarding their health care information by improving access and establishing enforcement protections for its appropriate use. It introduces a new section to chapter 70.02 RCW, allowing health care providers and facilities to charge a reasonable fee for providing health care information, capped at $50 for certain individuals, including patients and their representatives. The bill mandates the Department of Social and Health Services to create rules for determining these fees based on actual costs rather than a per-page calculation, reflecting the shift towards electronic health records. Additionally, it amends existing sections of RCW 70.02 to update definitions and clarify health care providers' responsibilities, particularly regarding patient authorization for disclosing health care information.

Moreover, the bill specifies conditions under which health care providers may deny access to health care information, such as if it could be injurious to the patient or is prohibited by law. It emphasizes the confidentiality of sexually transmitted disease information and outlines the circumstances for its disclosure, particularly for public health purposes. The bill also includes provisions for mental health service agencies to release information to authorized personnel, ensuring that confidentiality is maintained while allowing for necessary disclosures in emergency situations. A new insertion defines "legal counsel" in accordance with existing law, providing clarity within the bill's framework. Overall, the amendments aim to bolster patient rights while safeguarding sensitive health information.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70.02.010, 71.24.025, 70.02.080, 70.02.090, 70.02.170, 70.02.220