Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB545

Introduced
3/28/23  

Caption

Further providing for definitions, for test results and for duties of Department of Health.

Impact

The implementation of SB 545 would notably influence patient rights and health information transparency. It modifies the manner in which healthcare practitioners and diagnostic imaging entities are required to inform patients regarding test results, establishing clearer responsibilities for notifying patients directly. The bill also tasks the Department of Health with oversight duties, including conducting reviews and responding to complaints related to the notification process, aiming to streamline compliance and enhance patient care standards.

Summary

Senate Bill 545, introduced in March 2023, seeks to amend the existing Patient Test Result Information Act in Pennsylvania. This bill is aimed at enhancing the communication of diagnostic imaging results to patients, specifically when there are possible significant abnormalities detected in their tests. By mandating that healthcare providers notify patients directly when test results are available, the bill intends to empower patients with timely information about their health conditions for better follow-up care.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 545 appears to be favorable, especially among patient advocacy groups and healthcare professionals who champion increased patient engagement in health decision-making. Supporters argue that better access to test results fosters proactive patient involvement and potentially improves health outcomes. However, there may also be concerns regarding the operational impact on healthcare providers in adapting to the increased notification requirements, especially in terms of resource allocation and procedural changes.

Contention

One point of contention arising from the discussions around SB 545 relates to the practicality of enforcing the proposed notification processes, particularly in emergency or inpatient scenarios where patients may not be in a position to receive such results directly. Critics might question whether the nuances of various medical situations have been sufficiently addressed in the bill, which could lead to challenges in its implementation. Additionally, concerns about patient comprehension and the potential for miscommunication about test results may surface as critical issues as the bill progresses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1956

Further providing for definitions, for test results and for duties of Department of Health.

PA HB409

Further providing for definitions, for test results and for duties of Department of Health.

PA HB909

Further providing for definitions, for test results and for duties of Department of Health.

PA SB826

Further providing for definitions; providing for Lyme disease testing disclosure; and imposing duties on health care practitioners.

PA SB899

Further providing for definitions and scope of practice for certified registered nurse anesthetists.

PA HB1270

Further providing for title of act, for legislative purpose, for definitions, for lead poisoning prevention, assessment and testing and for duties of department.

PA HB916

Further providing for legislative findings and for definitions; repealing provisions relating to lead poisoning prevention, assessment and testing; providing for lead poisoning prevention, assessment and testing; and further providing for duties of department and for blood lead assessment and testing coverage.

PA HB819

In departmental powers and duties as to licensing, further providing for definitions and providing for food allergy guidelines.

PA HB2621

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in administration, further providing for duties of department and agencies; and providing for registration of abuse and neglect perpetrators.

PA HB294

In general provisions relating to health care, further providing for applicability, for definitions and for criminal penalties; in living wills, further providing for emergency medical services; in out-of-hospital nonresuscitation, further providing for definitions, for orders, bracelets and necklaces, for revocation, for absence of order, bracelet or necklace and for emergency medical services, repealing provisions relating to advisory committee and providing for discontinuance; and providing for Pennsylvania orders for life-sustaining treatment.

Similar Bills

CA SB974

Health care coverage: diagnostic imaging.

CA AB2024

Health care coverage: diagnostic imaging.

PA HB1956

Further providing for definitions, for test results and for duties of Department of Health.

PA HB909

Further providing for definitions, for test results and for duties of Department of Health.

CA AB890

Nurse practitioners: scope of practice: practice without standardized procedures.

PA HB409

Further providing for definitions, for test results and for duties of Department of Health.

CA AB789

Health care services.

CA SB257

Health care coverage: diagnostic imaging.