ND HB1159

Amends North Dakota Century Code Section 65-05-30 to broaden the definition of "doctor" to "health care provider" in workers' compensation claim information disclosures.

Filing a workers' compensation claim constitutes consent for the organization to use medical information, records, and prognosis reports in any proceeding where the organization is a party.

Authorizes health care providers, hospitals, and clinics to disclose claim-related information and opinions (including liability, causation, and preexisting conditions) to the organization, its representatives, or the employer, with employer disclosures limited to work injury and return-to-work issues.

Shields health care providers from liability for furnishing such information or opinions and prohibits licensure disciplinary proceedings based solely on providing this information, though it may be considered with other actions.

Declared an emergency measure; passed by House vote of 92-0-2 and Senate vote of 47-0-0.