Bill > H2077

This bill aims to improve the quality of mental health services and the rights of patients by providing for sufficient privacy. It requires that individuals seeking or receiving mental health services be entitled to a private intake room or physical space where only they, medical staff, and relevant security personnel can hear any intake and treatment conversations. These privacy provisions can only be waived in extreme emergency circumstances, which must be specifically noted and recorded in the medical record. The bill seeks to address the issue of patients being seen for intake or treatment in open wards or emergency settings without privacy, which can have negative effects on confidentiality, information sharing, and treatment discussions. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health and its Public Health Council are authorized to develop, establish, and enforce the necessary regulations to carry out the intent of this legislation.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H2077