Bill would strengthen safety measures in therapeutic interventions involving minors

Sen. Brenda Pérez Soto

By THE STAR STAFF

District III (Arecibo) Sen. Brenda Pérez Soto on Monday introduced Senate Bill 1301, a measure aimed at strengthening the safety and protection of minors and people with conditions that limit their ability to communicate during individual therapeutic interventions.

The proposal amends the Patient’s Bill of Rights and Responsibilities to recognize the right of parents, guardian or legal representatives to request audio and video recording of therapy sessions when the patient is alone with the professional providing the service.

“As a mother and a legislator, I understand that the safety and well-being of our children must always come before any other consideration,” Pérez Soto said. “This measure seeks to provide peace of mind to families and strengthen confidence in the therapeutic services our children receive.”

The senator said the legislation arises from the need to establish additional protection mechanisms for minors and people with neurodevelopmental conditions or communication limitations who may face difficulties in recounting situations that occurred during a private therapeutic intervention.

“This proposal does not seek to question the integrity of healthcare professionals, the vast majority of whom do extraordinary work,” Pérez Soto said. “On the contrary, it creates an objective tool that protects both the patient and the therapist from any allegation or controversy.”

The bill includes strict measures for confidentiality, storage and access to the recordings, which would form part of the clinical record and would be protected by federal medical privacy provisions and the legislation in force in Puerto Rico.

If the measure is approved, the island Health Department will have 180 days to adopt the necessary regulations for its implementation.