Bill > SB138

This bill addresses medical record access and transparency in New Hampshire by making two primary changes. First, the bill modifies existing law to require that when a health care provider requests a patient's medical records, those records must be transferred within 14 days at no cost, which is a more specific and expedited process than the previous 30-day standard. Second, the bill establishes a legislative committee to study medical record access in the state, composed of two representatives from the House, one senator, and tasked with examining the cost, access, and transparency of medical records. The committee is required to report its findings and recommendations to key state leadership by November 1, 2025. Additional provisions in the bill clarify existing medical record request procedures, including specifying maximum costs for record copies (such as $50 for electronic records and tiered pricing for paper records), mandating electronic records be provided electronically when possible, and ensuring that incomplete record transfers or delays result in no cost to the requestor. The bill aims to improve patient and provider access to medical information while maintaining privacy protections established by HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).

Health and Social Services

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=1063&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=SB138