Newfoundland and Labrador launches review of personal health information law

The Newfoundland and Labrador government is launching a public engagement process as it reviews the province's Personal Health Information Act.

The Department of Health and Community Services is seeking feedback on the findings and recommendations of the 2023 PHIA Review Report, including issues involving access, disclosure, governance and accountability.

The review will also examine young people's privacy rights and decision-making authority around personal health information. The government says it wants to clarify the respective roles of young people, parents or guardians and health-care providers when decisions about health information are being made.

The engagement comes after concerns raised earlier this year by parents, guardians and families about parental access to children's health information and the implementation of MyChart through CorCare.

The government says feedback will help determine how the legislation can balance the privacy rights of young people with the rights and roles of parents and guardians, while supporting the health and well-being of children and youth.

Residents can provide feedback through an online questionnaire at EngageNL, by email to PHIAReview2026@gov.nl.ca, or by submitting written comments by mail to the Department of Health and Community Services.

Online submissions will be accepted until Sept. 21, while written submissions will be accepted until Sept. 30.

The government will also hold virtual consultations with key stakeholders. Organizations will be contacted directly to arrange those sessions.

Feedback from the engagement will help inform potential legislative amendments expected this fall, aimed at clarifying, strengthening and modernizing Newfoundland and Labrador's health information framework.