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Bill Summary · SB 660

Summary of SB 660: California Health and Human Services Data Exchange Framework

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: SB 660
  • Title: California Health and Human Services Data Exchange Framework
  • Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 325, Statutes of 2025.
  • Introduced: February 20, 2025
  • Author: Menjivar
  • Coauthor: Bauer-Kahan

Purpose and Intent

SB 660 aims to enhance the exchange of health information among healthcare entities and government agencies in California. The bill establishes a framework for data sharing that is designed to improve health outcomes for individuals by ensuring real-time access to health information across various organizations.

Key Provisions

  1. Transfer of Responsibilities:

    • The Department of Health Care Access and Information will take over the establishment and implementation of the California Health and Human Services Data Exchange Framework from the California Health and Human Services Agency by January 1, 2026.

  2. Data Sharing Agreements:

    • The bill expands the entities required to execute data sharing agreements under the framework, ensuring broader participation in health information exchange.

  3. Designation of Intermediaries:

    • By July 1, 2026, the department must establish a process to designate qualified health information organizations as data sharing intermediaries, which will facilitate compliance with the framework's requirements.

  4. Reporting Requirements:

    • A report on the framework's implementation and compliance with data sharing agreements must be submitted to the Legislature by July 1, 2027, in collaboration with a stakeholder advisory group.

  5. Stakeholder Advisory Group:

    • The membership of the stakeholder advisory group will be expanded to include a wider range of stakeholders, ensuring diverse input on the framework's development and administration.

  6. Health Information Definition:

    • The bill defines "health information" to include electronic health records from hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and health insurers, aligning with federal regulations.

  7. Exemptions:

    • Certain entities, such as small physician practices and specific hospitals, are exempt from immediate compliance with data sharing requirements until January 31, 2026, or January 31, 2029, depending on the type of facility.

Impact

  • Healthcare Entities: Hospitals, clinics, and health insurers will be required to participate in the data sharing framework, which may enhance coordination of care and improve patient outcomes.
  • Government Agencies: The framework will facilitate better data sharing among state agencies, potentially leading to more informed health policy decisions.
  • Patients: Individuals may benefit from improved access to their health information and better-integrated care across different healthcare providers.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was approved by the Governor on October 3, 2025, and has undergone various amendments and approvals through legislative committees prior to its passage.

Conclusion

SB 660 represents a significant step towards modernizing health information exchange in California, aiming to create a more integrated healthcare system that enhances patient care through timely and efficient data sharing.

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

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