House Committee advances HB 495 limiting medical record fees to $90

During a recent meeting of the Health Subcommittee of the Tennessee State Legislature, lawmakers discussed significant changes to legislation affecting medical record fees and patient privacy. The discussions centered around House Bill 495, which aims to establish a maximum fee of $90 for accessing medical records from hospitals, clarifying that this fee is a flat rate rather than a per-page charge. This bill follows a similar measure passed last year that applied to doctor's offices, indicating a continued effort to reduce costs associated with obtaining medical records.

The committee emphasized the importance of ensuring that the legislation is clear and effective, with some members suggesting further amendments to prevent potential disputes in the future. Representative Mitchell highlighted the need for clarity, especially given the involvement of experienced attorneys in the field, and expressed confidence that they would support drafting necessary language to refine the bill.

In addition to the discussion on medical records, the committee also reviewed House Bill 387, which addresses the sensitive issue of firearm inquiries by medical professionals. This bill seeks to prevent doctors from asking patients whether they have firearms in their homes, reflecting ongoing debates about privacy and patient rights.

The committee ultimately voted unanimously in favor of House Bill 495, moving it forward for further consideration. As these legislative efforts progress, they promise to impact how residents access their medical records and engage with healthcare providers on personal matters, reinforcing the state's commitment to addressing community health concerns.