Bill > HB1339

This bill requires physicians to obtain detailed oral and written informed consent from patients at least two weeks before performing a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) or oophorectomy (surgical removal of one or both ovaries). The informed consent process must include providing the patient with specific educational materials, such as a DVD and pamphlet from the Hysterectomy Educational Resources and Services (HERS) Foundation, and color diagrams detailing female pelvic anatomy. Patients must be informed that they can withdraw consent at any time without losing healthcare benefits, and the consent form must explicitly state that the procedure is irreversible and will prevent future conception. Patients are allowed to modify the consent form, which requires both the patient's and surgeon's initials and a written copy of the modified document. The bill provides an exception to the informed consent requirement in life-threatening emergency situations where prior written consent is not possible. If a physician fails to comply with these requirements, they may be subject to disciplinary sanctions by the medical board. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to ensure patients are comprehensively informed about the implications of these surgical procedures.