Connecticut Senate Bill SB00168

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/15
• Refer: 1/20/15

Caption

An Act Limiting The Use Of The University Of Connecticut Health Center's Patient Information By The Uconn Foundation.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would amend the general statutes to impose strict guidelines on how the UConn Foundation can utilize patient information. Currently, there may not be explicit restrictions on the use of this data, which can expose sensitive information to misuse. By clearly defining the permissible uses of patient data, SB00168 seeks to bolster trust between patients and the health institution, potentially encouraging more individuals to seek care and participate in programs without fear of their information being exploited for purposes beyond fundraising.

Summary

SB00168 is a proposed bill aiming to regulate the use of patient information by the UConn Foundation, specifically restricting its application to charitable fundraising activities for the University of Connecticut Health Center. The core purpose of this legislation is to enhance privacy protections for patients by ensuring their personal health information is used solely for soliciting donations that support the health center's programs and services.

Contention

While the bill is designed to protect patient privacy, it may also lead to discussions about the balance between necessary fundraising efforts and individual privacy rights. Some stakeholders might argue that while limiting the use of patient information for non-charitable purposes is beneficial, overly restrictive measures could hinder the foundation's ability to raise the funds required for vital health center programs. Therefore, this bill could spark a broader conversation about the ethics of data use in health care organizations.