Relates to permitting direct access to laboratory results

6 Co-sponsors

• James S. Alesi
• John A. DeFrancisco
• Joseph A. Griffo
• Kemp Hannon
• Tom Libous
• Thomas P. Morahan

Title of bill

An act to amend the public health law, in relation to permitting direct access to laboratory results

Purpose

To grant patients of eighteen years of age or older direct access to their personal laboratory results.

Summary of provisions

Section 1 amends the public health law by adding a new section 576-d, which authorizes patients of eighteen years of age or older to request and view a report of their laboratory results. The report will consist of a clear statement that will not act as replacement for physician or health care practitioner communication or advice. Section 2 effective date.

Justification

Currently in the state of New York, patients are not authorized to view their personal laboratory results. Instead, patients must first consult their physicians, who then would need to request access to the results. While other states allow patients to view their laboratory reports by request, New York unnecessarily forces patients to ask physicians to request the information for them. However, patients have a right to access their own results as it is their bodies and of their concern. This law would help patients get faster access to these medical records.

Legislative history

S.2622 of 2007-2008; Referred to Senate Health Committee

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the one hundred twentieth day after it shall have become a law; provided, however, that effective immediately, the addition, amendment and/or repeal of any rule or regulation necessary for the implementation of this act on its effective date are authorized and directed to be made and completed on or before such effective date.