Michigan Senate Bill SB1115

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/14/24
• Refer: 11/14/24

Caption

Health: medical records; medical record fees; modify to exclude certain individuals. Amends secs. 3 & 9 of 2004 PA 47 (MCL 333.26263 & 333.26269).

Impact

The proposed changes in SB 1115 would directly affect the fee structure associated with obtaining medical records. Under the current law, healthcare providers are allowed to charge patients for the processing and copying of their medical records. The bill proposes to maintain certain charges while introducing provisions for waiving fees for medically indigent individuals, which would help ensure that access to medical records does not become a financial burden on these vulnerable populations. Such modifications could facilitate better patient care by ensuring that necessary medical information is accessible.

Summary

Senate Bill 1115 aims to amend the Michigan Medical Records Access Act initially established in 2004, focusing specifically on the conditions under which medical records may be accessed and the associated fees. The bill seeks to provide clearer definitions of terms such as 'authorized representative' and outlines the rights of individuals, particularly in the context of accessing medical records. This is particularly pertinent in cases where patients are unable to request their records themselves, such as with deceased patients or those deemed medically indigent.

Contention

While the bill is largely framed as a consumer protection measure, it may face scrutiny regarding the interpretation of 'medically indigent' and which individuals qualify for fee waivers. Proponents argue that waiving fees is essential for patient rights and access to information, while opponents may view this as potentially increasing administrative burdens on healthcare providers. Another point of contention may arise around the definitions of medical records and the costs associated with storing and retrieving older records, which could lead to further discussions around the responsibilities of healthcare providers.