DE HB440

Amends Delaware's Confidentiality of Personal Health Information Statute to allow the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) to release protected health information for law enforcement purposes in accordance with federal HIPAA regulations (45 C.F.R. Parts 160, 162, and 164).

Expands disclosure permissions to allow release of protected health information in judicial or administrative proceedings in accordance with federal HIPAA or pursuant to court order to avert clear danger to an individual or public health.

Adds new exceptions permitting disclosure of protected health information for patient treatment and care coordination, including provision, coordination, and management of health care by one or more health care providers and referrals between providers.

Authorizes disclosure to health plans, health care clearinghouses, business associates, and health care providers for transactions related to financial or administrative healthcare activities and health insurance operations as defined by federal HIPAA regulations.

Aligns Delaware's state law with federal HIPAA requirements, bringing DHSS practices into compliance with federal guidelines already followed by other healthcare entities in the state.