Release of Medical Data

Subdivision 1. Definitions. (a) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given. (b) "Health care facility" means the office of a dentist or physician, or another medical facility, that is in possession of identifying data. (c) "Identifying data" means dental or skeletal X-rays, or both, and related information, previously created in the course of providing dental or medical care to a child who has now been reported as missing or a person who has now been reported as missing and endangered. Subd. 2. Written declaration. If a child is reported missing or a person is reported missing and endangered, a law enforcement agency may execute a written declaration, stating that an active investigation seeking the location of the missing child or endangered person is being conducted, and that the identifying data are necessary for the exclusive purpose of furthering the investigation. Notwithstanding chapter 13 or section 144.651, subdivision 16, when a written declaration executed under this subdivision, signed by a peace officer, is presented to a health care facility, the facility shall provide access to the missing child or endangered person's identifying data to the law enforcement agency.