Bill > S00555

This bill establishes strict privacy protections for patients in healthcare settings by requiring express written consent before any broadcasting or transmission of a patient's recognizable image or speech during medical treatment. The bill defines "broadcasting" broadly to include transmission via television, internet, social media, or other visual mediums, and applies to various healthcare facilities like hospitals, clinics, ambulance services, and diagnostic centers. Patients have the right to refuse broadcasting, even for educational or training purposes, and in cases where a patient is incapacitated, a legally authorized representative can provide or withhold consent. The bill includes important exceptions for purposes like advancing healthcare treatment, quality assurance programs, and necessary security. Notably, the legislation does not apply to news media coverage, investigative reports, or images captured by journalists at public scenes or during ambulance responses. Healthcare facilities are protected from liability if a third party broadcasts patient images without the facility's knowledge or consent. Additionally, the bill allows patients or their estate representatives to bring legal action and seek damages for privacy violations, with the possibility of recovering attorney's fees, thereby providing a legal mechanism to enforce these privacy rights.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S555