Bill > A08905

This bill expands and clarifies the laws regarding patient health records in New York State, focusing on making medical information more accessible and affordable for patients. The legislation broadens the definition of "health records" to include all patient information, X-rays, laboratory test results, images, and payment records, and applies to a wide range of health care providers including physicians, specialists, therapists, and other licensed practitioners. Key provisions include prohibiting health care providers from charging patients for records when they are needed to support government benefit applications, limiting copying fees to 75 cents per page, and ensuring that patients cannot be denied access to their records due to inability to pay. The bill also clarifies that when health care professionals work as employees or contractors of larger health care entities, the responsibility for providing records falls on the employing or contracting organization. Additionally, the legislation maintains patient privacy protections by excluding certain confidential notes and data from mandatory disclosure. The goal of the bill appears to be increasing transparency, reducing barriers to patients accessing their own health information, and standardizing medical record release practices across different types of health care providers.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8905