The new federal rule that pre-empts many state laboratory laws and permits direct communication of test results between labs and patients has received the blessing of the College of American Pathologists, an 18,000-physician medical specialty society.
“We are pleased that the HHS has expanded patient rights and access to laboratory records, while recognizing the vital role pathologists and laboratories have in patient healthcare,” said CAP President Dr. Gene Herbek in a news release. “As this rule is implemented, the CAP will work with laboratories on compliance with regulations and with HHS on its guidance to providers and patients.”