NY S06936

Authorizes the professional conduct officer (or designee) of the Office of the Professions to examine and obtain unredacted patient or client records from health care facilities and licensed professionals' offices without patient consent during investigations and proceedings involving alleged professional misconduct.

Requires that all patient or client records obtained remain confidential during investigations and department proceedings and prohibits further disclosure to unauthorized individuals without express patient consent.

Protects patient identity by prohibiting disclosure of patient or client names in investigations, conferences, or proceedings unless the patient expressly consents or law otherwise authorizes disclosure.

Prohibits any use or dissemination of information from obtained records except pursuant to valid court order or other legal authorization.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.