H.R. 3792: Kids Information Data Security Act

This bill, known as the Kids Information Data Security Act (or KIDS Act), aims to amend existing provisions in the Social Security Act regarding the information that healthcare providers can collect from minors under 18 years of age when they seek care through Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Key Provisions

• Restriction on Information Collection: The bill prohibits healthcare providers participating in Medicare and State health care programs from asking minor patients about their gender identity or sexual preference on intake forms or through any related documentation. This applies to any information that is not essential for diagnosing or treating a medical condition, as defined by relevant clinical guidelines.
• Implementation Timeline: The restrictions will go into effect 180 days after the bill is enacted. After this period, healthcare providers will need to comply with these new requirements.
• Reporting Mechanism: The bill mandates that the Secretary of Health and Human Services establish a system for individuals to report instances where providers have requested such information from minors, thus enforcing compliance with the law.

Implications

This legislative change is intended to protect the privacy of minors by limiting the collection of potentially sensitive data that may not be necessary for their medical care. It focuses on maintaining the confidentiality of children's health information and addresses concerns regarding the appropriateness of collecting such information during healthcare interactions.

Relevant Companies

None found