A proposed bill filed in the North Carolina House of Representatives on April 6, 2011 (HB 709) would grant both an employer and insurer greater access to information regarding an injured claimant’s medical condition.  While written notice to an employee is currently required for an employer or insurer to obtain an injured claimant’s medical records, HB 709 would authorize receipt of such records without the express authorization of the claimant provided certain conditions are satisfied.

HB 709 further authorizes an employer and insurer to communicate directly (orally or in writing) with the treating health care provider so long as the claimant is notified within 15 calendar days of the provider’s response.  A fee would be established to compensate for the provider’s time in communicating with the employer or insurer and be subject to annual review.   

HB 709 can be found at:  http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/Sessions/2011/Bills/House/HTML/H709v0.html