Substitute Bill 1508 sets fees for medical records requests and imaging services

On April 16, 2025, the Connecticut State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 1508, a significant piece of legislation aimed at regulating the fees charged by healthcare institutions for providing copies of medical records and imaging. This bill seeks to address growing concerns about the affordability and accessibility of medical records, particularly for patients and their representatives who may face financial barriers when requesting such information.

The primary provisions of Senate Bill 1508 establish a structured fee schedule for various types of medical records. For written requests made by individuals other than the patient or their personal representative, the bill outlines specific fees: a ten-dollar search and retrieval fee, escalating charges for pages of records, and a fifty-dollar fee for medical imaging, among others. Notably, the total fees for a single request cannot exceed one thousand five hundred dollars, which aims to prevent excessive charges that could deter individuals from obtaining their medical information.

The introduction of this bill has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers and healthcare advocates. Proponents argue that the legislation is a necessary step toward enhancing transparency in healthcare costs and ensuring that patients can access their medical histories without facing prohibitive fees. Critics, however, express concerns that the fee caps may not adequately cover the administrative costs incurred by healthcare institutions, potentially leading to unintended consequences such as reduced access to records or increased delays in processing requests.

The implications of Senate Bill 1508 extend beyond mere financial considerations. By regulating the costs associated with obtaining medical records, the bill could improve patient engagement in their healthcare, fostering a more informed patient population. Additionally, it may set a precedent for other states to follow, potentially leading to a nationwide reevaluation of how medical records are accessed and charged.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and any amendments that may arise. The outcome of Senate Bill 1508 could significantly impact the relationship between patients and healthcare providers, shaping the future landscape of medical record accessibility in Connecticut and beyond.