Section 6. The department may require the reporting of any infectious disease found in the examination of specimens at clinical laboratories if, in its opinion, reporting of such disease is necessary to protect or promote the public health. Every person who and every agency which maintains a clinical laboratory shall report evidence of any infectious disease found in the course of the examination of specimens, if so required by the department, in such form, manner, and detail and within such time as the department shall prescribe. Reports made under this section shall not be considered as constituting a diagnosis nor shall any person making a report pursuant to this section be held liable in a civil proceeding for having violated a trust or confidential relationship. Notwithstanding section ten of chapter sixty-six, every such report shall be kept confidential by the department and its employees and agents and shall not be subject to the inspection, examination, or copying by any other agency of government or by any other person.
Structure Massachusetts General Laws
Part I - Administration of the Government
Chapter 111d - Clinical Laboratories
Section 2 - Regulatory Authority of Public Health Department
Section 3 - Advisory Committee
Section 4 - Licensing Requirements; Exemptions
Section 5 - License; Application; Filing; Issuance; Renewal; Form
Section 6 - Infectious Disease Reports; Confidential Information
Section 7 - Clinical Laboratory Director
Section 8 - Prohibited Activities
Section 9 - Correction of Deficiencies; Orders
Section 10 - Unreliable Reports of Examinations; License Modification
Section 11 - Revocation of or Administrative Sanctions Upon License
Section 12 - Complaints by Department; Jurisdiction
Section 13 - Violations; Penalties
Section 14 - Disclosure of Ownership Interests; Penalty for Violation