California bill would let pharmacies sell medical records

San Francisco Chronicle, May 29, 2008

Under a bill before the state Senate, pharmacies in California would be allowed to sell confidential patient prescription information to third-party marketing firms working for drug companies. The legislation would allow pharmaceutical firms to send mailings directly to patients, and supporters say the intent is to remind patients to take their medicine and order refills. The California Medical Association opposes the legislation, contending that it could jeopardize patient safety and hurt doctor-patient relationships.