Minnesota Legislature amends health record cost provisions in new bill

Minnesota's Senate Bill 1881 is making waves as it seeks to overhaul the cost structure for accessing personal health records. Introduced on February 27, 2025, the bill aims to eliminate fees for patients requesting copies of their medical records for personal review, a move that advocates say will enhance patient rights and transparency in healthcare.

Under the proposed legislation, healthcare providers would no longer be able to charge patients for copies of their records when requested for personal use. However, the bill does outline specific fees for providers when they retrieve or reproduce these records. For records dated within the last three years, a flat fee of $250 would apply, while older records would incur an additional charge of $0.40 per page. X-ray retrievals would also see a structured fee, with a base charge of $30 for x-rays and $50 plus $25 per unique study for other imaging.

The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and healthcare professionals, with proponents arguing that it promotes patient autonomy and access to vital health information. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential financial impact on healthcare providers, who may struggle to absorb the costs associated with fulfilling these requests without the ability to charge patients.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications could reshape the landscape of patient rights in Minnesota, potentially setting a precedent for other states to follow. If passed, Senate Bill 1881 could significantly reduce barriers to accessing personal health information, fostering a more informed patient population and encouraging proactive health management. The next steps will involve further debates and potential amendments as it heads to the Health and Human Services committee for review.