Bill > HB1699

This bill introduces new regulations for how certain sensitive medical test results can be disclosed electronically to patients or their representatives. The bill defines "electronic means" as publishing information on a secure electronic network or website, such as an online patient portal, and specifies that "sensitive test results" include pathology or radiology reports likely showing malignancy or genetic marker test results. Under the new law, physicians are prohibited from electronically disclosing these sensitive test results before the third day after the results are finalized, giving patients and healthcare providers time to process potentially serious medical information. The bill amends the Occupations Code to require physicians to provide requested medical information within 15 business days and adds provisions protecting electronic health record administrators from liability if they comply with these new disclosure requirements. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to test results and information requests made on or after that date, ensuring a clear transition period for healthcare providers to adapt to the new regulations.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1699