HI SB2885

Authorizes the Department of Health and researchers to use birth defects data collected for educating healthcare providers, in addition to existing uses for medical research, public health research, and medical education.

Expands permitted uses of birth defects data to increase physicians' knowledge of resources available for families of persons with birth defects.

Requires researchers to obtain approval from a patient's primary care provider before collecting additional information directly from a patient or patient's relative for research studies; allows direct patient contact if the current physician is unknown, subject to institutional review board approval.

Maintains confidentiality protections by keeping the identity of any person whose condition or treatment has been studied confidential.

Takes effect on July 1, 2016.