AZ HB2229

Allows prisoners to authorize the Arizona Department of Corrections to release their medical records to immediate family members or a designated individual with written authorization that complies with HIPAA privacy standards.

Requires the department to release authorized medical records within 15 calendar days of receiving the prisoner's written authorization, and permits the department to charge a copying and production fee.

Permits authorized family members or designated individuals to submit physician recommendations for medical treatment on the prisoner's behalf, which the department must submit to its contracted healthcare vendor for clinical consideration.

Requires the contracted healthcare vendor to provide written clinical explanation in the prisoner's medical record if a recommendation is determined to not be medically indicated.

Defines "medical record" as any medical record retained by the department relating to treatment provided while in a department facility, and "physician" as anyone holding an active license in good standing from any state.