The bill represents a significant shift in how medical records are accessed, particularly for disabled individuals who may face exorbitantly high costs when securing necessary documentation to support their disability claims. The existing situation has caused many claims to be dismissed due to the prohibitive costs associated with obtaining such records. By imposing a cap on fees and mandating timely responses from medical providers, SB305 aims to enhance the accessibility of medical records, thereby supporting individuals' ability to claim their entitled benefits.
Summary
Senate Bill 305 aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with obtaining medical records necessary for individuals seeking social security disability benefits in Hawaii. Recognizing that over 30,000 disabled residents presently receive these benefits, the bill seeks to create a structure for reasonable fees when medical records are requested by patients, their family members, or caregivers. It proposes that electronic records cannot exceed a charge of $2.00 per request, while paper records would be capped at two cents per ten pages, excluding additional postage costs.
Contention
Notably, this legislation responds to a critical need observed in other states that have enacted similar measures, reflecting a nationwide trend towards protecting the rights of disabled individuals in the healthcare system. Yet, it also anticipates potential challenges from medical providers concerned about their costs of compliance and the administrative burden of adapting to these new requirements. Overall, the bill embodies a careful balance of ensuring access to essential medical documentation while also establishing clear penalties for violations of the law.