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HB 1045

Health Insurance, Family Planning Services, and Confidentiality of Medical Records - Consumer Protections - Updates

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 16 co-sponsors

Maryland law strengthens health insurance confidentiality protections for family planning services and medical records to prevent discrimination and unauthorized disclosure.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 469
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Bill Summary · HB 1045

Legislative bill overview

HB 1045 updates Maryland's health insurance and medical privacy laws to strengthen consumer protections related to family planning services and the confidentiality of medical records. The bill has been signed into law by the Governor and addresses gaps in existing regulations governing how insurers handle sensitive health information and family planning coverage.

Why is this important

Healthcare privacy and insurance coverage for family planning services directly affect individuals' access to reproductive health care and their ability to receive treatment confidentially. These protections become particularly significant when considering data security, insurance discrimination, and situations where individuals may seek care without the knowledge of family members or dependents.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance coverage mandates - Requirements that insurers cover family planning services may increase premiums for some policyholders or create tension between carriers and state regulators over implementation costs
  • Medical record access restrictions - Confidentiality protections limiting parental or third-party access to medical records may conflict with guardianship rights or family decision-making preferences in certain circumstances
  • Administrative compliance burden - Healthcare providers and insurers must update systems and train staff to comply with new confidentiality standards, creating operational costs and potential delays in implementation

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

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