Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has reached a settlement with the Memorial Hermann Health System (MHHS) that will guarantee parental access to their children's medical records. The agreement comes after an investigation by the Office of the Attorney General revealed that MHHS had falsely claimed that state law prevented them from providing parents with certain adolescent medical records. It was determined that the restriction was actually due to MHHS's own technological limitations.
As part of the settlement, MHHS has committed to implementing a new digital program that will enable parents to have full access to their children's medical records. In the meantime, the MHHS website will provide clear instructions for parents on how to obtain their adolescent children's medical records.
"This settlement represents the major progress my office has made to ensure parents' rights are protected in an era where medical decision-making has become painfully politically charged," Attorney General Paxton stated. "By achieving this agreement, we have ensured the best possible outcome for Texas families."
The agreement also includes a voluntary assurance from MHHS that they will continue to uphold open and transparent parental access to their adolescent child's medical records in accordance with Texas and federal law.
This development is a significant step towards safeguarding parental rights and ensuring that parents have the necessary information to make informed decisions about their children's healthcare. Access to medical records is crucial for parents to stay informed and actively participate in their children's healthcare decisions.
The settlement with MHHS is a testament to the Texas Attorney General's commitment to protecting and advocating for parental rights. By holding healthcare providers accountable and ensuring compliance with the law, Attorney General Paxton has demonstrated his dedication to the well-being of Texas families.
For those interested in reading the full agreement, it can be accessed by clicking here. The implementation of the new digital program by MHHS will provide parents with convenient and timely access to their children's medical records, further empowering them to make informed decisions regarding their children's healthcare.
For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/attorney-general-ken-paxton-secures-settlement-memorial-hermann-health-system-ensure-parental-access