Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has taken new action on electronic health records, suing Epic Systems Corporation for alleged monopolization and deceptive practices. The case raises questions about data privacy and parental rights in healthcare.
The lawsuit accuses Epic, which manages records for about 325 million patients, of using its dominance to block competitors. The complaint says partners, customers, and employees have been affected. Paxton claims Epic’s market control stifles innovation and raises costs for hospitals and patients.
The lawsuit also targets Epic’s handling of parental access to children’s health records. Epic allegedly hides health information from parents once a child turns 12. Paxton says this violates parents’ rights to oversee their children’s healthcare, stating in a Texas Attorney General press release that such practices will not be allowed.
The case presented by the Attorney General's Office doesn't exist in a vacuum. Earlier actions against electronic health records vendors have set the stage for this confrontation. After securing a settlement with Austin Diagnostic Clinic requiring the restoration of parental access for minors aged 12 to 17, Paxton's office issued civil investigative demands to other EHR providers, demanding compliance with Texas law and parental rights.
The case highlights debates over data control and privacy. Paxton aims to promote competition in the largely single-company EHR market. It also raises questions about parental rights and children’s medical privacy. The outcome may have implications beyond Texas for access to sensitive health data.
