- Health record trust
A health record trust (also independent health record trust or health record data bank) provides a secure and protected place for individuals to create, use, and maintain their lifetime electronic health record (EHR). A health record trust protects patient privacy by establishing that the patient is the owner of his or her health care records. It gives patients authority to access and review the entire record at any time as well as the authority to allow health care professionals, facilities, and organizations to view the records. Patients cannot alter their health records but instead add notes and request corrections. They can also view every provider who downloads their EHR.
Legislation has been introduced in Congress to establish a regulatory framework for the establishment of health record trusts. The Independent Health Record Trust Act (H.R. 2991) was introduced by Rep. Dennis Moore (D-KS) and Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) on July 11, 2007. Similar legislation (S.3454) was introduced in the 109th Congress by Senator Sam Brownback (R-KS). The legislation seeks to give consumers control over their lifetime health records, with the broader goal of reducing health care costs that result from inefficiency, medical errors, inappropriate care, and incomplete information. With the availability of a longitudinal health record protected by a health record trust, patients receive better quality of care and are able to pass along their medical records to future generations. Health record trusts promote wellness and improve patient care through quick and easy access to critical health information.
External Links [http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=110_cong_bills&docid=f:h2991ih.txt.pdf HR 2991]
[http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h110-2991 GovTrack Summary of H.R. 2991]
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