ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Fifty-fifth Legislature First Regular Session
	Senate: HHS DP 8-0-0-0 | 3^rd Read 29-0-1-0 House: HHS DP 9-0-0-0

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SB 1017: informed consent; pelvic examinations

Sponsor:  Senator Barto, LD 15

Caucus & Cow

Overview

States that it is unprofessional conduct for a licensed physician, nurse practitioner or a physician assistant to perform or supervise a pelvic examination on an anesthetized or unconscious patient without obtaining the patient's informed consent.

History

Currently ten states have made it illegal for a medical professional to perform a pelvic exam without first obtaining the patient's express consent (EHLPP). According to current statute, a medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, nurse or physician assistant suspected of unprofessional conduct may be investigated and disciplined if found guilty by their respective boards (A.R.S. §§ 32-1451, 32-1855, 32-1664, 32-2551).

Provisions

1. Prohibits a licensed physician, nurse practitioner or a physician assistant from performing or supervising a pelvic examination on an anesthetized or unconscious patient without obtaining the patient's informed consent, unless the pelvic examination is one of the following:

a) Within the scope of the surgical procedure or diagnostic examination to be performed on the patient for which informed consent has otherwise been obtained;

b) In the case of an unconscious patient, required for diagnostic purposes and is medically necessary; or

c) A forensic medical examination requested by law enforcement arising out of the need to secure evidence that the patient has been the victim of a criminal offense. (Sec. 1)

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