New Jersey Assembly Bill A1242

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Establishes centralized electronic health information exchange infrastructure to facilitate reentry into civilian life for recently incarcerated persons.

Impact

This bill has the potential to enhance the healthcare outcomes for reentering individuals by providing easier access to their health records and facilitating continuity of care. The establishment of such an infrastructure may help in reducing barriers that previously incarcerated persons face in obtaining medical services, thereby improving their chances of successful reintegration into society. Furthermore, by ensuring that health information sharing complies with existing federal and state privacy laws, it addresses concerns regarding confidentiality and the safeguarding of sensitive health data.

Summary

Bill A1242 aims to establish a centralized electronic health information exchange infrastructure in New Jersey to aid recently incarcerated individuals in their transition back into civilian life. The proposed legislation directs the New Jersey Health Information Technology Commission to develop and implement a system for storing and sharing crucial health information with the informed consent of the patients. This infrastructure is intended to link various stakeholders, such as health care professionals, the Department of Corrections, and reentry programs, ensuring that individuals receive necessary health services post-incarceration.

Contention

Discussion surrounding the bill could include notable concerns over data privacy and the implementation of the infrastructure. Stakeholders may voice apprehensions about the security of shared health information and the potential for misuse of data. Additionally, there may be debates on the adequacy of resources allocated for the commission to effectively set up this system and whether there are sufficient safeguards in place to address issues related to data ownership and governance.