Mississippi House Bill HB946

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Medical records; require health care provider to timely provide to patients after receiving request for.

Impact

The enactment of HB 946 would significantly influence the operations of healthcare providers in Mississippi. By instituting a clear timeline for the provision of medical records, the bill aims to streamline processes and enhance the level of service that providers offer to patients. This legislative change seeks to improve transparency and accountability within the healthcare system, which may foster better relationships between patients and providers. It also minimizes the potential for disputes regarding record access, as the requirements are clearly defined by law.

Summary

House Bill 946 establishes new provisions under the Mississippi Code, specifically Section 41-10-5, which mandates that health care providers and their agents must provide medical and billing records to patients within thirty days of receiving a valid request. This legislation is aimed at enhancing patient rights by ensuring that individuals have timely access to their medical information, which is critical for informed decision-making regarding their healthcare. This bill reflects a growing trend to empower patients in managing their health and treatment options by removing unnecessary delays in record retrieval.

Contention

While the bill primarily serves to benefit patients by ensuring access to their health information, it may also raise concerns among healthcare providers about the logistical implications of complying with these new requirements. The timeframe set by the bill is relatively tight, potentially placing additional administrative pressures on healthcare facilities. Stakeholders in the healthcare industry may argue about the feasibility of meeting these demands consistently, especially in scenarios where large volumes of requests might overwhelm existing processes. This tension highlights the need for a balance between patient empowerment and the operational capabilities of healthcare entities.