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SB 127

Expanding the hearsay exception for statements made to a physician to all healthcare providers.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas bill expands rules allowing patient statements to any healthcare provider, not just physicians, as admissible evidence in court proceedings.

Died in Committee
#civilprocedureandcivilactions
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Bill Summary · SB 127

Legislative bill overview

SB 127 expands Kansas's hearsay exception rules to allow statements patients make to any healthcare provider—not just physicians—to be admissible as evidence in court proceedings. Currently, Kansas law permits hearsay exceptions only for statements made to physicians seeking medical diagnosis or treatment; this bill broadens that category to encompass nurses, physician assistants, therapists, and other healthcare professionals.

Why is this important

This change affects both criminal and civil litigation by making medical evidence more accessible in court. It could strengthen cases involving medical malpractice, personal injury, and crimes where victim statements to healthcare providers are central to proving what happened. The expansion also reflects the modern reality that patients increasingly receive care from diverse healthcare professionals beyond just doctors.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process concerns: Defense attorneys may argue the expansion makes it easier to introduce patient statements without cross-examination, potentially disadvantaging defendants who can't directly challenge the reliability of statements made to less-regulated providers
  • Provider variability: Healthcare providers have different training levels and documentation standards; statements to a nurse assistant may be treated the same as those to a specialist, raising questions about consistency and accuracy
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's language may not clearly define which professionals qualify as "healthcare providers," potentially creating litigation over admissibility in borderline cases (mental health counselors, nutritionists, etc.)

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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