This bill amends Section 42-9.1-5 of the General Laws to give the health care advocate the power to receive confidential health care information. However, the health care advocate is prohibited from disclosing this information, except through judicial process. The information cannot be used against a patient in any civil or criminal proceeding or in any other matter where the patient is identified or their identity is inferred. The bill also states that any confidential health care information received by the health care advocate shall not include the name, address, or social security number of the patient or any other information that specifically identifies a patient. Upon completion of any investigation or legal action, all records obtained by the health care advocate must be destroyed. The costs of providing the health care advocate with information will be borne by the provider. This bill will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
728: 42-9.1-5