Crime victims: other; definition of health care provider; amend to reflect amendments to the public health code. Amends sec. 5a of 1976 PA 223 (MCL 18.355a). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5477'24
Impact
Key changes brought by HB 5479 include the stipulation that victims of sexual assault will not bear any costs associated with their medical forensic examinations, including deductibles or co-payments. Additionally, health care providers are required to inform victims about the confidentiality of their information, ensuring that no claims are submitted to insurance providers without the victim's explicit consent. This provision aims to reduce barriers for victims seeking care, allowing them to make decisions based on their privacy and safety concerns.
Summary
House Bill 5479 amends the 1976 PA 223, focused on crime victim services, specifically regarding the provisions for sexual assault medical forensic examinations. The bill establishes eligibility criteria for health care providers seeking compensation for such examinations and outlines the necessary components that must be included in the examination. These components ensure a comprehensive medical history, thorough medical examinations, and the administration of a sexual assault evidence kit. This amendment aims to safeguard the rights and privacy of sexual assault victims during the examination process.
Contention
However, the bill has sparked discussion regarding the balance between supporting victims and maintaining oversight of the health care services provided. Some stakeholders are concerned that the financial implications on the state's commission overseeing these reimbursements could lead to potential strains on resources if not appropriately managed. Furthermore, ensuring the proper implementation of the consent requirements adds an additional layer of complexity for health care providers, raising questions about the practicality of the requirements outlined in the bill.
Same As
Health facilities: certificate of need; requirement to obtain a certificate of need; eliminate. Amends secs. 2612, 20101, 20145, 20155, 20161, 20164, 20165, 20166, 21551, 21562 & 21563 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2612 et seq.) & repeals (See bill).
Mental health: code; mental health code; amend to reflect amendments to the public health code. Amends sec. 134a of 1974 PA 258 (MCL 330.1134a). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5477'24
Insurance: other; the insurance code of 1956; amend to reflect amendments to the public health code. Amends sec. 2006 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2006). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5477'24
Health facilities: certificate of need; nonprofit health care corporation reform act; amend to reflect amendments to the public health code. Amends secs. 401, 417 & 502 of 1980 PA 350 (MCL 550.1401 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5477'24
Human services: adult foster care; adult foster care facility licensing act; amend to reflect amendments to the public health code. Amends secs. 5 & 34b of 1979 PA 218 (MCL 400.705 & 400.734b). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5477'24
Health facilities: county medical care facilities; the social welfare act; amend to reflect amendments to the public health code. Amends secs. 55, 66a, 109 & 109e of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.55 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5477'24
Crimes: prostitution; references to prostitute and prostitution; modify in public health code. Amends sec. 5129 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.5129). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5841'24
Health: medical records; medical records access act; amend to reflect amendments to the public health code. Amends sec. 3 of 2004 PA 47 (MCL 333.26263).