MS SB2453

Authorizes sheriffs in Mississippi counties to employ licensed and certified personnel to provide occupational health services and preventive primary care and acute care to sheriff employees and their eligible dependents.

Permits sheriffs to expand health care services to all county employees and their insured dependents if staffing resources allow and the board of supervisors consents and approves the expansion.

Allows sheriffs to hire additional personnel, use office or medical space within sheriff or county facilities, and expend funds from approved operating budgets to purchase equipment and supplies for the health care program.

Requires all health records maintained under this program to comply with federal HIPAA regulations and be exempt from public disclosure and the Mississippi Public Records Act, with occupational health records kept separate from employee and dependent health records.

Takes effect January 1, 2020.