Bill > H1816

This bill modifies two sections of Massachusetts law regarding medical record storage and healthcare proxy procedures. In the first section, the bill updates language about how hospital and clinic records can be stored, specifically allowing them to be kept using secure electronic digital media, either by converting original records or maintaining them electronically. The second section focuses on healthcare proxy protocols, requiring that when a healthcare proxy is provided to an attending physician, it must be electronically inserted into the patient's medical record in the same manner as a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order. Additionally, the bill mandates that medical facilities must transport healthcare proxies like DNR orders and proactively notify the designated healthcare agent by both telephone and email when their authority begins. The bill also stipulates that an attending physician must grant a patient's request to involve their healthcare agent in medical discussions. These changes aim to modernize medical record management and improve communication between patients, their designated healthcare agents, and medical providers.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1816