Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara today announced new legislation that would allow New Yorkers to order certain routine blood tests directly from a licensed clinical laboratory without needing a doctor’s referral. Supporters say the change would remove a major obstacle that many residents face when trying to monitor their heart health and other conditions.

“New Yorkers shouldn’t face extra hurdles just to get a simple cholesterol test,” said Santabarbara. “Nearly every other state already allows this. It’s time for New York to modernize its rules and give people easier access to the information they need to protect their health.”

Direct access testing is already available in 47 states, where people can request certain laboratory tests on their own – a process similar to getting a flu shot at a pharmacy or purchasing an at-home test kit.

But New York’s regulations still require a doctor’s order for many basic screenings, making it harder for residents to get important health information quickly.

The Family Heart Foundation, a national nonprofit organization focused on inherited heart conditions, has long urged New York to join the rest of the country in allowing direct access. Advocates note that the state’s rules can especially hinder access to cholesterol testing and lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) screening – a critical test for identifying genetically inherited risk of premature heart disease.

Local constituent Barbara Collura, a Family Heart Foundation Ambassador, recently spoke with the Assemblymember and provided information showing how these restrictions impact families trying to get tested.

“This bill isn’t about bypassing doctors,” Santabarbara added. “It’s about removing unnecessary barriers. New Yorkers would still be able to discuss their results with their healthcare providers – they just wouldn’t have to wait for an appointment to take the first step.”

Lp(a) levels are determined by genetics – a person is born with them – and elevated levels significantly increase the risk of early heart disease and stroke. Many people are unaware of their risk because the test is not part of standard screening, and the only way to know your level is through a blood test.

National organizations, including the Family Heart Foundation, continue to stress that better access to testing is essential for early detection and treatment planning.

The bill would:

• Allow adults to obtain certain approved laboratory tests directly from licensed labs.
• Include cholesterol and Lp(a) testing among permitted direct-access options.
• Maintain all existing safety, quality, and reporting standards for clinical labs.
• Ensure patients can share results with a healthcare provider whenever they choose.

“This is a practical, people-first solution,” Santabarbara said. “It improves access to preventive care and brings New York in line with the rest of the country.”

The legislation will be introduced in the upcoming session, and early conversations with partners in the Senate and public health advocates are already underway.

For more information about Lp(a) and other cardiovascular risk factors, visit CholesterolConnect.org