Bill > HB2402

This bill amends West Virginia law to clarify access to medical records, particularly for parents seeking their minor children's medical information. Under the new provisions, a parent, guardian, foster parent, or kinship placement generally cannot be denied access to a minor's health records, except in specific circumstances. Parents will be prevented from accessing their minor child's medical records if the child has graduated high school, is emancipated, or is married. The bill requires healthcare providers to furnish medical records within 30 days of a written request, offering patients the option to receive records in paper or electronic format. The law also stipulates that no additional authorization from the minor child is required for a parent or legal guardian to obtain medical records, except in the previously mentioned scenarios. Healthcare providers found in violation of these requirements may be required to pay attorney fees and court costs. Additionally, the bill removes previous exemptions related to AIDS-related medical testing and records confidentiality, making medical record access more straightforward for patients and their representatives.

Health and Social Services

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2402&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill