Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S3044

Introduced
5/3/24  
Refer
5/3/24  
Report Pass
5/28/24  
Engrossed
5/30/24  
Refer
5/31/24  
Report Pass
6/6/24  
Enrolled
6/10/24  

Caption

Amends definition of "authorized representative" in the confidentiality of health-care communications/information act provides that an authorized representative may include any heir-at-law when the patient is deceased/the personal representative is absent

Impact

The enactment of S3044 is anticipated to have significant implications for the handling of healthcare information within the state. By allowing heirs-at-law to access health information, the bill seeks to provide continuity and support for family members dealing with the death of a patient. This could help ensure that pertinent medical information is shared appropriately during times of emergency or confusion, ultimately supporting the health and welfare of patients even after death.

Summary

Bill S3044 proposes an amendment to the confidentiality of health care communications and information act, specifically focusing on the definition of 'authorized representative'. This change aims to clarify who can act as an authorized representative for patients who are unable to assert their confidentiality rights, including cases where the patient is deceased and no personal representative is available. The amendment would recognize heirs-at-law as authorized representatives under such circumstances, expanding the group of individuals who can access sensitive health information when the patient is not able to do so themselves.

Contention

Although S3044 aims to enhance the accessibility of healthcare information for families, it may also raise concerns regarding privacy and the potential for misuse of such information. Opponents of the bill might argue that granting access to health records could complicate confidentiality protocols and lead to unauthorized disclosures. Thus, while the amendment could provide necessary authorizations, it must be balanced against the right to privacy that patients and their families expect from healthcare providers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5051

House Resolution Adopting The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024 (this Resolution Would Adopt The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024.)

RI H5059

House Resolution Thanking Representative Anastasia P. Williams For Her Thirty Years Of Devoted And Distinguished Service In The Rhode Island House Of Representatives

RI H5679

The Prescription Drug Sales Representative Disclosure Act

RI S0573

The Prescription Drug Sales Representative Disclosure Act

RI H5495

The Rhode Island Health Care Reform Act Of 2004 -- Health Insurance Oversight

RI S0290

The Rhode Island Health Care Reform Act Of 2004 -- Health Insurance Oversight

RI H6257

House Resolution Amending The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024

RI S1001

Home Care Patients Rights

RI S0104

Determination Of Need For New Healthcare Equipment And New Institutional Health Services -- Licensing Of Healthcare Facilities -- The Hospital Conversions Act

RI H5131

House Resolution Amending The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2021 And 2022 (amends The House Rules To Permit A Member To Vote By Proxy When The Member Is Unable To Be Physically Present Due To A Health Condition.)

Similar Bills

RI H7646

Amends definition of "authorized representative" in the confidentiality of health-care communications/information act provides that an authorized representative may include any heir-at-law when the patient is deceased/the personal representative is absent

RI S2945

Amends provisions relative to confidentiality of health care communications and the process for requesting records and/or confidential health care information.

RI H7448

Amends provisions relative to confidentiality of health care communications and the process for requesting records and/or confidential health care information.

RI S0700

Amends provisions relative to confidentiality of health care communications and the process for requesting records and/or confidential health care information.

RI H5500

Amends provisions relative to confidentiality of health care communications and the process for requesting records and/or confidential health care information.

GA SB113

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GA HB219

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GA HB1264

Professions and businesses; establish a professional health program to provide for monitoring and rehabilitation of impaired healthcare professionals; authorize