CHAPTER 248
An Act to amend and reenact § 32.1-127.1:03 of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 32.1-127.1:06 , relating to health records; disclosure of laboratory test results; waiting period.
[H 973]
Approved April 6, 2026
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:
1. That § 32.1-127.1:03 of the Code of Virginia is amended and reenacted and that the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 32.1-127.1:06 as follows:
§ 32.1-127.1:03 . Health records privacy.
A. There is hereby recognized an individual's right of privacy in the content of his health records. Health records are the property of the health care entity maintaining them, and, except when permitted or required by this section or by other provisions of state law, no health care entity, or other person working in a health care setting, may disclose an individual's health records.
Pursuant to this subsection:
1. Health care entities shall disclose health records to the individual who is the subject of the health record, including an audit trail of any additions, deletions, or revisions to the health record, if specifically requested, except as provided in subsections E and F and subsection B of § 8.01-413 .
2. Health records shall not be removed from the premises where they are maintained without the approval of the health care entity that maintains such health records, except in accordance with a court order or subpoena consistent with subsection C of § 8.01-413 or with this section or in accordance with the regulations relating to change of ownership of health records promulgated by a health regulatory board established in Title 54.1.