This bill aims to reduce the maximum cost for obtaining medical records and mandates that they be provided electronically if requested. It repeals and reenacts RSA 332-I:1, I to establish that all medical information in the records held by a healthcare provider or a third-party vendor is considered the property of the patient. Patients or their requestors, which include personal representatives, individuals with power of attorney, or the patient's attorney, are entitled to copies of these records in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
The bill specifies the costs for electronic and paper copies of medical records. The cost for electronic copies and related services is capped at $6.50, while the cost for paper copies is limited to $5 for the first page, $0.41 per page for pages 2 through 50, and $0.30 per page for pages 51 and higher, with a total cost not exceeding $50. If records are available electronically, they must be provided in that format unless a paper format is specifically requested. Records must be delivered within 30 days of the request, or they will be provided at no cost, unless an unforeseen force majeure event prevents timely delivery. Additionally, if an incomplete copy is provided and further requests are needed to obtain a complete copy, those additional records must be provided at no cost. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 332-I:1