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SB 278

Health data: HIV test results.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Christopher Cabaldon and 9 co-sponsors

SB 278 allows Medi-Cal providers to share HIV test results without consent, improving care for low-income patients while maintaining privacy protections.

Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 748, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · SB 278

Summary of SB 278: Health Data: HIV Test Results

Bill Number: SB 278
Introduced: February 4, 2025
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 748, Statutes of 2025.
Author: Senator Cabaldon
Subject: HIV test results, health data

Purpose and Intent

SB 278 aims to enhance the management and disclosure of HIV test results specifically for Medi-Cal beneficiaries. The bill seeks to improve the quality of HIV care provided to low-income individuals enrolled in the Medi-Cal program by allowing certain disclosures of HIV test results without requiring written consent from the test subjects.

Key Provisions

  1. Disclosure of HIV Test Results:

    • The bill permits healthcare providers to disclose HIV test results that identify Medi-Cal beneficiaries to their assigned Medi-Cal managed care plans without needing written authorization from the test subjects or their representatives.
    • Disclosure is also allowed to external quality review organizations that conduct evaluations of Medi-Cal managed care plans for the purpose of quality improvement programs, including value-based payment and healthy behavior incentive programs.

  2. Non-Identifying Results:

    • HIV test results that do not identify the subjects can be disclosed without written authorization to departmental staff for the same quality improvement purposes.

  3. Restrictions on Disclosure:

    • The bill maintains existing protections by prohibiting the disclosure of identifying HIV test results to regulated health care service plans without written consent, except for the specified disclosures to Medi-Cal managed care plans.

  4. Clarifying Statements:

    • The bill includes clarifying statements regarding the interpretation of related provisions in the Health and Safety Code.

Impact

  • Beneficiaries: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are low-income individuals enrolled in the Medi-Cal program who require HIV care. By facilitating the sharing of test results among healthcare providers and managed care plans, the bill aims to enhance the quality and effectiveness of HIV treatment.

  • Healthcare Providers: Healthcare providers will have more flexibility in managing and sharing HIV test results, which can lead to improved patient care and outcomes.

  • Quality Improvement Programs: The bill supports the implementation of quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing HIV care for Medi-Cal beneficiaries, potentially leading to better health outcomes and more efficient use of resources.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was approved by the Governor on October 13, 2025, and was subsequently chaptered into law.
  • It underwent several readings and amendments in both the Senate and Assembly before final approval, reflecting a collaborative legislative process.

Conclusion

SB 278 represents a significant step in improving the management of HIV test results within the Medi-Cal system. By allowing for necessary disclosures without written consent, the bill aims to enhance the quality of care for vulnerable populations while maintaining essential privacy protections.

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

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