SB 477 - This act details information to be included in physician abortion reports.

Section 188.015, RSMo, is modified to include a definition for the Department of Health and language allowing interpretation of the definitions is removed. Currently, Section 188.052, RSMo, requires a physician to submit an abortion report for each abortion he or she performs. New language specifies that the report shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

- Information required by federal reports and organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; - Information regarding the type of procedure used to perform the abortion; and - Specific reasons the woman sought the abortion.

In addition, a physician must currently submit an individual complication report for post-abortion care. The Department must publish an annual statistical report. New language requires the report to include data on abortions or induced and post-abortion care. The report must contain the gestational age by weekly increments at which abortions are performed. The report must not include any information that would allow the identification of a patient, physician, or hospital or abortion facility.

Currently, Section 188.070, RSMo, provides for a misdemeanor for violation of confidentiality. New language increases the penalty to a Class D felony if any person who knowingly violates the confidentiality of records, reports, or documents maintained by the abortion facility or Department of Health. A new Section 191.655 is also added to allow an action for breach of medical record confidentiality, if not otherwise provided for. Damages, court costs, attorney's fees, and other relief are allowed for negligent, willful, intentional, or reckless violation of such confidentiality.
ERIN MOTLEY