Bill > H1196

This bill aims to streamline the process of using medical information as evidence in legal proceedings by amending Section 79G of Chapter 233 of the General Laws. Essentially, it makes it easier to introduce itemized bills and reports, including hospital medical records, related to medical, dental, prescription, or orthopedic appliance services rendered to an injured person. These documents, when sworn to by the healthcare provider or an authorized agent, can be admitted as proof of the fair cost of services, the necessity of treatment, the diagnosis, prognosis, the cause of the condition, and any resulting disability. To use these documents as evidence, the opposing party must receive written notice and a copy via certified mail at least ten days before they are presented, and proof of this notice, along with the return receipt, must be filed with the court. However, this change does not prevent any party from summoning the healthcare provider or their records for cross-examination or to challenge the information presented.