North Central PA Times

The Pennsylvania state Senate has passed legislation aimed at eliminating regulations that restrict patients from accessing information about diagnostic testing and services offered by local clinical laboratories. The bill, sponsored by Senators Rosemary Brown, Lynda Schlegel Culver, and Tracy Pennycuick, seeks to provide patients with more information when choosing a clinical laboratory for essential tests and procedures.

"The regulations prevent patients from learning about clinical laboratories and the services they provide," Senator Brown stated. "Patients deserve to know about their options when they are selecting a clinical laboratory to perform these important tests and procedures."

Senator Culver emphasized the importance of informed decision-making for patients: "Patients should have access to information about the services and procedures available at their local clinical laboratories. I want to make sure patients can make informed decisions about where and how to obtain these important health services."

The current regulations in Pennsylvania date back to the late 1960s, prohibiting clinical laboratories from advertising their diagnostic testing services. This regulatory restriction limits patient access to information regarding available healthcare options.

Under Senate Bill 712, clinical laboratories would be allowed to advertise their services while maintaining consumer protections. A physician's script would still be required for ordering diagnostic tests, which must be processed by a licensed clinical laboratory.

Senator Pennycuick highlighted Pennsylvania's unique position as the only state with such restrictions: "It’s time for Pennsylvania to catch up with the rest of the nation and enable patients to have access to this information." She expressed her hope that the House of Representatives will consider the legislation when it reconvenes.

Senate Bill 712 now moves forward for consideration by the state House of Representatives.