Healthcare privacy is essential for patient trust and access to care. As threats to healthcare rights grow, New Mexico must protect patient confidentiality. The Patient Record Privacy Act ensures sensitive medical information— including reproductive health, gender-affirming care, abortion, and contraception—remains secure by requiring strict data protections and prohibiting disclosure without explicit patient authorization, even to out-of-state entities.
Healthcare Privacy Is Under Threat.
With federal leadership actively pursuing restrictions on reproductive and gender-affirming care, patient privacy is increasingly at risk. Without robust state protections, sensitive medical information could be disclosed or weaponized, putting patients in danger. This bill ensures New Mexico remains a safe haven for those seeking care.
Patient Authorization Is Required.
The Patient Record Privacy Act ensures that sensitive medical information cannot be disclosed without the patient's explicit authorization. This includes preventing out-of-state entities or hostile jurisdictions from accessing private medical records without consent.
Privacy protects safety.
For transgender, nonbinary, and other vulnerable individuals, control over their medical information is a matter of personal safety. Without these protections, sensitive details could be misused, leading to discrimination, harassment, or even violence. This legislation ensures that every New Mexican can seek care without fear.
Data Protection Improves Healthcare Outcomes.
When patients trust that their information is secure, they are more likely to share sensitive details with healthcare providers, leading to better diagnoses and treatment. The Patient Record Privacy Act enhances the quality of care available to all New Mexicans by fostering this trust.
