Companies that collect, analyze and sell medical data filed lawsuits in federal courts in Vermont and Maine today.
They’re challenging laws in both states that make doctors’ prescription-writing habits confidential.
A similar law in New Hampshire, the nation’s first, was overturned in April by a federal judge.
Companies in Connecticut and Pennsylvania filed the suits today.
The complaints ask the court to block Vermont and Maine from enforcing their laws, which take effect January 1st, 2008.
The filings also say the states’ laws block vital health care information from public view.