SB 1694

Abstract

Amends the Code of Civil Procedure. Provides that, if there is no legally authorized personal representative for a deceased patient, the deceased had not appointed an agent under a power of attorney for health care who was authorized to act for the deceased after death, and the deceased had not specifically objected to disclosure in writing, a spouse, adult child, parent, or sibling of the deceased may request copies of the deceased patient's records and health care facilities and practitioners are authorized to provide a copy of those records upon payment of the statutory fee and a signed Authorized Relative Certification attesting to the fact that the person is authorized to receive the records. Sets forth the contents of the Authorized Relative Certification, provides for immunity, and amends other statutes to conform to the new provisions. Amends the Illinois Power of Attorney Act. Adds the function of accessing medical records to the existing instances when a health care agency may extend beyond the principal's death which now are to allow for an anatomical gift, an autopsy, or the disposition of remains.