Removing Burdens From Organ Donation Act

Automated Notifications and Access: Hospitals would be required to issue an automated electronic notification to a designated organ procurement agency when a potential donor's records indicate they are deceased or death is imminent (Section 2(a)(1)(A)(iii)(II)). This also includes providing remote access to the donor's electronic health records.

Exemptions for Hardship: The Secretary has the authority to exempt hospitals or critical access hospitals from these requirements for up to 3 years if they face significant hardship, such as being in a rural area without sufficient Internet access (Section 2(a)(1)(4)(A)(i)).

Automatic Protections During Disasters: Hospitals receive an automatic 1-year exemption if they are affected by a cybersecurity attack or a major natural or man-made disaster (Section 2(a)(1)(4)(A)(ii)).

Implementation Guidance: The Secretary of Health and Human Services must issue guidance on best practices for hospitals, agencies, and electronic health record companies (Section 2(b)(1)). Furthermore, guidance must be provided to State agencies regarding how to explain these requirements to organ donors and their families (Section 2(b)(2)).

Implementation Costs: The bill notes that there are costs associated with implementing the automated electronic notification and remote access requirements (Section 2(c)(1)(A)).

Digital Connectivity Barriers: The implementation of these requirements may be impacted by hospital locations, specifically regarding limited broadband access in rural areas (Section 2(c)(1)(B)).

Data Security Risks: The requirement involves remote access to electronic health records, which necessitates a review of issues related to securing patient data (Section 2(c)(2)(B)).