A new legislative proposal in New Hampshire, Senate Bill 138, aims to streamline the process for health care providers to access patients' medical records. Introduced on January 22, 2025, the bill mandates that health care providers receive requested medical records within 14 days, a significant change intended to enhance patient care and improve communication among medical professionals.

The bill, sponsored by a bipartisan group of senators and representatives, addresses a critical issue in the health care system: the often lengthy delays in obtaining medical records. By establishing a clear timeline for record requests, the legislation seeks to reduce wait times that can hinder timely medical decisions and patient treatment. Additionally, the bill stipulates that patients or their authorized representatives can request copies of their medical records at a reasonable cost, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede access to essential health information.

Key provisions of the bill include a cap on fees for electronic and paper copies of medical records, with electronic copies not exceeding $50 and paper copies capped at $5 for the first page and incremental costs thereafter. This pricing structure aims to make access to medical records more affordable for patients, promoting transparency and empowering individuals to take charge of their health information.

While the bill has garnered support for its potential to improve patient care, it has also sparked discussions about the implications for health care providers and third-party vendors responsible for managing these records. Some stakeholders have raised concerns about the feasibility of meeting the 14-day deadline, particularly for smaller practices that may lack the resources to comply with the new requirements.

Experts in health care policy suggest that if passed, Senate Bill 138 could lead to more efficient health care delivery and better patient outcomes. However, they caution that the success of the bill will depend on adequate support and resources for health care providers to adapt to these changes.

As the New Hampshire Legislature continues to deliberate on this bill, its potential impact on the health care landscape remains a focal point of discussion. If enacted, Senate Bill 138 could mark a significant step toward enhancing patient rights and improving the overall efficiency of health care services in the state.