Bill > SB2413

This bill clarifies protections for information shared by healthcare providers and organizations related to quality improvement committees (QICs), which are groups that review patient care to identify areas for improvement. Specifically, it states that if a healthcare provider or organization in good faith shares information about a QIC's activities with a patient or their family, it does not mean they are giving up the confidentiality protections that already exist for QIC information. The bill also introduces the concept of "open discussion" following an "adverse healthcare incident," which is defined as an outcome of patient care resulting in death or physical injury. These open discussions, which can involve patients or their families to address incidents and propose solutions, are considered privileged and confidential, meaning they cannot be used as evidence in legal proceedings unless explicitly waived in writing. Healthcare providers and organizations are not required to disclose QIC findings in legal or administrative settings, and participation in QIC reviews must remain confidential unless federal law requires otherwise. The bill also provides immunity from liability for good faith communications made during these voluntary discussions, as long as they are not an admission of liability and the patient is informed of their right to legal counsel and that participation does not extend legal deadlines unless agreed upon in writing.

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/Default?BillNumber=SB2413&ga=114