The North Dakota Administrative Rules Committee convened on December 5, 2024, to discuss significant amendments to existing regulations, particularly focusing on the management of dry blood spot cards and the transportation of trauma patients to Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities.

One of the key decisions made during the meeting was the amendment regarding the disposal of dry blood spot cards. Previously, these cards were to be retained for 18 years; however, the committee voted to reduce this retention period to 30 days. This change aims to mitigate the risk of misuse of the cards, enhancing the protection of sensitive health information.

In addition to this amendment, the committee heard a presentation from the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services concerning administrative rules related to trauma patient transport. The proposed changes will allow ambulance services to transport trauma patients to designated IHS hospitals that have entered into a memorandum of understanding with the state. This adjustment recognizes the sovereignty of tribal health services and aims to streamline emergency care for patients in need.

The two IHS hospitals specifically mentioned are located in Belcourt and Fort Yates. The amendment is expected to have minimal fiscal impact and is designed to maintain existing practices that have been in place for over a decade, ensuring that trauma patients receive timely care at appropriate facilities.

The committee's discussions reflect a commitment to improving healthcare access and safeguarding patient information, with the amendments set to enhance operational efficiency within the state's health services framework. As these changes take effect, stakeholders anticipate a smoother process for trauma care and better protection of sensitive health data.