New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A06954

Introduced
3/18/25  
Refer
3/18/25  

Caption

Relates to requiring a medical facility or related service to obtain express prior written consent before filming and/or broadcasting of visual images of a patient's medical treatment.

Summary

Bill A06954 seeks to amend the public health law and civil rights law in New York to establish strict regulations regarding the broadcasting of visual images and speech of patients undergoing medical treatment. It mandates that healthcare facilities must obtain express written consent from patients before any such broadcasting occurs, with specific exceptions for educational purposes, quality assurance, and security. The bill aims to enhance patient privacy rights within healthcare settings by ensuring that individuals have control over their images and personal information during treatment.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly strengthen patient privacy rights in New York by legally requiring healthcare facilities to obtain consent before broadcasting any identifiable images or speech of patients. It will also create a private right of action for individuals whose privacy rights are violated under this new provision, allowing them to seek damages. This could lead to increased accountability for healthcare providers and a potential rise in litigation related to privacy violations in medical settings.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A06954 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for patient rights and privacy. However, there may be concerns from healthcare providers regarding the implications of increased liability and the operational challenges posed by the requirement for obtaining consent. No formal votes or committee discussions have been recorded yet, indicating that the bill is still in the early stages of consideration.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from healthcare facilities that could be concerned about the administrative burden of obtaining written consent for broadcasting, especially in emergency situations. Additionally, the exceptions outlined for educational and quality assurance purposes may lead to debates about the adequacy of patient protections in those contexts. Stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and patient advocacy groups, may have differing views on the balance between privacy and the need for training and quality improvement in healthcare.

Companion Bills

NY S00555

Same As Relates to requiring a medical facility or related service to obtain express prior written consent before filming and/or broadcasting of visual images of a patient's medical treatment.

Previously Filed As

NY S00134

Relates to requiring a medical facility or related service to obtain express prior written consent before filming and/or broadcasting of visual images of a patient's medical treatment.

NY S00555

Relates to requiring a medical facility or related service to obtain express prior written consent before filming and/or broadcasting of visual images of a patient's medical treatment.

NY HB5035

Requiring medication-assisted treatment prgrams to have written policies concerning community relations

NY HB3385

Requiring medication-assisted treatment prgrams to have written policies concerning community relations

NY SB30

Requiring medically necessary care and treatment to address congenital anomalies associated with cleft lip and cleft palate

NY A2281

Requires Medicaid coverage for fertility preservation services in cases of iatrogenic infertility caused by medically necessary treatments.

NY S3006

Requires Medicaid coverage for fertility preservation services in cases of iatrogenic infertility caused by medically necessary treatments.

NY SB1019

Requiring coverage for medically necessary treatment for cleft lip and cleft palate

NY HB2631

To require all medical providers to orally explain any and all medical treatments and procedures and all possibilities for potential problems or complications or side effects to patients before proceeding with treatments.

NY A09515

Relates to requirements for medical professionals and health care facilities that provide medication to patients for medical aid in dying; extends the initial effectiveness of certain provisions relating thereto.

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