Maximum charges for medical record request costs modification; per page and retrieval charges for medical record request costs modification
Impact
If enacted, SF4834 would significantly affect existing healthcare laws in Minnesota, particularly regarding the affordability and accessibility of medical records for patients. The adjustments to the maximum charges are designed to align more closely with contemporary standards and inflationary factors, being indexed to the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. This measure aims to reduce burdens on patients while ensuring that healthcare providers can still recoup reasonable costs associated with record management.
Summary
Senate File 4834 (SF4834) proposes modifications to the costs associated with requesting medical records in the state of Minnesota. The bill seeks to amend Minnesota Statutes 2022, specifically section 144.292, to update the maximum allowable charges for the retrieval and copying of medical records. Under the new regulations, providers will not be able to impose fees for patients requesting their own records for the purpose of reviewing current medical care. For other requests, the bill specifies a cap of 75 cents per page and a $10 retrieval charge for copying records.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SF4834 may include the balance between ensuring patient access to their medical records and the financial viability for healthcare providers. Some stakeholders may argue that the proposed limits could undermine the operational costs for medical institutions, especially smaller clinics that rely on these fees to cover administrative expenses. Conversely, advocates for patient rights likely emphasize the necessity of removing financial barriers that could impede individuals from obtaining their health information when needed.